I actually thought this was relatively restrained compared to many of the reports of the Flint and Buccherre stories. What's changed in the last few months is all of this stuff is now playing out in the mainstream media. In the court of public opinion, perception = reality. Finer points and details are just boring, tedious, or an excuse used by crazy cyclists to justify their high risk, reckless and selfish hobby. (note the deliberate use of sarcasm in that last part).
I agree that this reinforces the negative perception of cycling, I think the best response is frankly when we're out there riding. Obey traffic laws, be courteous road users and give folks the benefit of the doubt.
Edit: and online, don't create dumbass segments that end at stop lines etc.