Simmons's family is not very large, but it is a long-established politician family, and Simmons is currently the most prominent and distinguished representative of this family.
For a family, what should be done if there arises a member who might shake the very foundation of its existence?
Sever ties, must sever ties, absolutely sever ties.
Good deeds can be acknowledged, bad deeds certainly cannot. If a family member's actions become public and cannot be accepted, then they must be covered up; if it cannot be covered up, then quickly sever ties to prevent dragging everyone down.
This is not just about the family, it's about the entire interest group.
Revenge must be taken when necessary, but that's a matter for later. In face of a major crisis, the primary task is, of course, self-preservation, and revenge can be sought slowly after the situation tames down.