"Most countries, if they allow expat residents, expect a much greater economic contribution than what Thailand expects. 800K baht in a bank? $80K/year income" What country requires $80k/year for retirement? France requires income of $1700 a month for retirement visa (https://aginggreatly.com/retire-in-france-or-spain/), or 1/4 of what Thailand requires.
Thais don't go to US/Australia to retire. I doubt anyone goes to these places to retire. Thais go there to work, make money, hence higher financial requirements.
Politicians do not care about some Isaan family receiving money from a farang. They want big spenders using their businesses and filling up their pockets.
Thai government has been more than explicit about their desire to replace backpackers, expats with quality tourists. Why is it so hard to understand it. Like they say, love it of leave it...