A "detraction" is a verbal attack or a slandering remark. A detraction written by a reporter would certainly hurt the senator's claims. 

The sentence does describe "a mass wave of violence that killed dozens," yet also describes that the riots "calm down." This indicates the missing word reflects an ultimate point of terrible violence in the riots. "Apogee," meaning the highest or furthest point or climactic moment, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence describes the subject as someone who can "trust no one and see harm in everything." These phrases can be used a fair definition or clue to the correct answer. "Paranoia," meaning a mental condition featuring a general fear or anxiety, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence describes the subject attacking "a much larger force" and doing so constantly. This indicates the correct answer needs to show the subject has a "lack of" good judgement. "Prudence," meaning caution and wisdom, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence discusses the subject's image having "to fully come back to the previous level." This means the correct answer has to indicate bringing something back to past levels. "Resuscitation," literally meaning to bring back to life, and here used figuratively, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence contrasts the subject's position as the missing word with "his ownership of multiple bars." The correct answer needs to indicate opposition to bars, drinking, or ownership. "Teetotaler," meaning someone who completely abstains from alcohol, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence describes the "pets' affection" as doing the missing word "while she was still grieving." This indicates the correct answer should show some help for the subject's grief. "Balm," meaning something soothing and calming, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence describes the subject as having "surpassed most of his fellow violinists in ability." This indicates he was a very gifted and talented musician. "Virtuoso," meaning a highly skilled and accomplished performer, is the correct answer choice.

The sentence explicitly contrasts the missing word with the "excitement" present "after years of working at the same job." This means the correct answer needs to mean the opposite of "excitement." "Complacency," meaning a lack of awareness or energy, is the best choice among the answers.

The sentence notes their "strategy was deeply flawed." This pairs with the missing word having "backfired," indicating the correct answer will be synonymous with "strategy." "Gambit," meaning ploy or maneuver, is the best choice among the answers.