Lawyers doing what lawyers do. Blame the state of our legal system, or society. Trial in the court of public opinion is accepted by society, consequences be damned.

Lawyers talk to decision makers (judges or juries) who hear both sides of the story. Lawyers are charged with presenting the best possible version of their client's story, because it is the job of the decision maker (not the lawyer) to weigh the facts, judge credibility, and reach a conclusion.

The situation is a bit different where an organization like the EFF is talking directly to the public.

I imagine that this kind of thing has some consequences for them specifically, though, given that they're funded by donations. I'm certainly less likely to keep donating if I think they're being dishonest and sensationalizing their work.

I agree with your sentiment (their SESTA coverage was a bit ridiculous) but that's exactly what opposing interests are doing.

It's not a fair fight by nature. Why hold the only defender in the arena to a higher set of standards?

Nevertheless people gobble it up. They are the advocates we deserve, not the advocates we need.