Another Board I follow - KRY - had a long time user banned because of his persistent attacks on anyone and everyone who had a contrary opinion. In this case, he was the complete opposite of a 'basher', but it was his confrontational attitude that got him banned.

Anyway, half the Board rejoiced and half the Board complained about his ban. After a week or so, the Hub Leaders asked Agoracom to reinstate him, which they eventually did. He came back, and his posts since have been much more polite.

So, Hub Leaders DO have that ability to influence Agoracom, when it's in everyone's best interests. I guess, however, that each situation is unique and should be treated as such.