TLDR:
A Missouri Republican began publicly speaking out about corruption and shady activity by his own party. Smear campaign immediately commences against him, and he is soon found dead from "suicide". His press secretary then spoke out against the obvious terrible actions of the party, and he is soon found dead from "suicide" as well.
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This has been done throughout history, it's still being done today, and it likely will always be done. As long as there's power, there will be people who will do whatever it takes to keep it, regardless of how unethical the methods by which they do so may be. Not saying it's a good thing, just that it's not surprising in the least.