I'm not sure they intended for me to read the second sentence the way I did... which was VERY negatively, as in they're raising the bar for attaining DM. (Your loyalty and passion for travel inspire us to keep raising the bar year after year.)
So it seems that they want us to use the travel voucher over the Amex statement credit. I select the RUC/GUC option, the voucher, and the amex credit, so I'm net neutral with this change. I select RUCs for my PM threshold so I'm net neutral there. Seems like the only way you'd lose is if you select RUC/GUC + Amex credit + the miles (since 5k mile increase is only worth $65-ish).
These changes take effect in 2/1/2026 regardless if you're selecting for 2026 or 2027!!!! Important statement:"To ensure we continue to deliver the benefits your loyalty deserves, for the 2026 Medallion Choice Benefits that are increasing in value, we will ensure all Members that have already selected these Choice Benefits or do so between now and February 1, 2026, receive the new higher value" PICK EVERYTHING BETWEEN NOW AND 2/1/2026. It also appears that the "trueups" that happen will occur by mid-February and not necessarily immediately. As of right now, my $350 credit that I selected a couple of weeks ago remains $350 and I have not received an additional $150 one (as I'd expect).