Yeah but it's very classical. People come in many variations: between the religious autists, the emotional ragers, the ashamed paranoids, the hiding incompetents, the coward wises, the hungry juniors, etc, we've all seen them each time we try a shy challenge of an established practice. Especially in IT where you can survive a little bit longer with absolutely no ability for politeness or compromise.

I think the guy got a bit too emotional over that, maybe because he cares too much ? At some point you have to let go: you're not alone, and you don't have enough support ? It's your fault for thinking human relationship are about truth and reality rather than exchanges of favor and networks of influence.

Let it go this time, build a support network, come back with the proposal and see who whines the loudest. No point stepping down or leaving in shame.