I'm seeing the same. I partially blame "newsteem", which does not value small blog posters at all. Bidbots are not longer allowed, so small accounts in most cases can't get any payout for their work as the price of Steem is low and a post might not reach the payout threshold. Rampant downvoting everywhere too. Clans fighting, downvote troll accounts are everywhere.
Whales can still enjoy themselves as they are using 'free bidbots" = they vote for themselves in a small circle, their curation payout is now upped, and the payout for their posts is higher because of the none lineair payout curve.
When I voiced my opinion I was told that Steemit doesn't owe me any payout, small bloggers are useless. I also received some downvotes for this. I guess free speech is off the table here too.