The senator’s speech, while ostensibly addressing economic reform, was primarily a(n) _____ against his political rivals, filled with veiled accusations and personal attacks.

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

A 'diatribe' is a forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something. The description of the speech as a 'veiled attack' filled with 'veiled accusations and personal attacks' perfectly matches the definition of a diatribe. The other options are forms of praise.