A bit off topic = "us regular riders on the NE corridor S+ is meaningless" These type of statements show the arrogance of many Amtrak riders in that corridor.
For the rest of the country offering Select + status just for being a cardholder - is a perk we would love to have ( even if a yearly fee applied ). I guess those who have unlimited funds or companies paying for their rides could care less. But Amtrak ridership is much more than NorthEast Corridor. Although many of you think differently.
As for those worried about a fee. Think what you would spend out of pocket for Select + versus a yearly credit card fee. I think basic math would support that fee being much cheaper with major upside status benefits provide.