Hm. Any mining experts want to weigh in?
I can't speak to mining specifically, but CPU processing abilities are always in a state of flux...
...but not to the degree that it would have a noticeable impact on hashing over time
What I see happening is the new leadership and team are trying to find their way through what is indeed a storm. I see a separation from GAW/HJG. I see a first round agreement with the PC owners for an initial drop of staking interest, including the burning of coins that exceed current allowances. I see acceptance begun of the wallet that effects the staking change. It's only a start, but it is a start, a beginning of applying brakes to a runaway train. I also saw a willingness to reach out to someone with greater cryptographic experience than perhaps themselves.
sorry but said train is off the tracks, smashed through a wall, and triage is being attempted on the few survivors, it will never run again.