We can rant all we want (myself included) but until the customer dissatisfaction actually shows up on their bottom line, it's not likely to get any better.

Marriott is a business (like everyone else) and unless they actually see their numbers take a significant hit (attributed directly to Elites leaving for other chains and not a broader economic slowdown), there isn't going to be any net positive change. They may throw a bone here and take something away from another place.

I have accepted this and I now throw quite a few stays to other chains to take advantage of their promos since I am now Lifetime Plat with close to 2M depreciating points in the bank. Just status matched to Club Carlson Gold and stayed a 3 2-nighters for an additional 30K CC points.