It could be another issue entirely. High profile news and features websites do remove content for various reasons. Outdated information, inflammatory content or "fake" stories are downranked and stripped. Hence, you'll sometimes find stories linking to sources that no longer exist. It is possible certain topics, words or phrases triggered removal from the spotlight.

I wouldn't put a ton of weight into something so many have already argued doesn't help boost readership that much (though I disagree on this common claim). Rather than writing about it, creators should reach out to Medium to gain insight. I've always found that when dealing with controversial issues, it's best to go straight to the source.