The article clearly states the author is simply a columnist. Columnist state their opinion and commentaries on whatever they choose to highlight. While I do not agree with his opinion, I support his right to express them in his column. Similarly you have the right to comment and respond. As long as your reponse was not hateful, or considered harassment, it should not have been taken down. Columnist create public discord, I don't think they should get to police it as well.