The vast difference between attitudes towards certain ATC centres in the states ( or anywhere else ) is probably down to " better the devil you know " . Regular operators into anywhere know the traps and pitfalls and effortlessly avoid them. Those of us who use these places less frequently don't see the crazy clearance coming so easily and certainly don't appreciate it.
Something that hasn't been mentioned here is the overall trend within the industry to the margins of safety. This cannot be good. More operators are getting close to 900 hours annually from their crews. As the low cost virus spreads more skippers experience more pressure in areas such as MEL and fuel decisions. The nearest suitable airport often isn't in the minds of your bosses thus adding further pressure.
Lots of groups are under constant relentless pressure in IR forums ( look at FR ) and now it seems morale is nothing more than an unecessary cost. In Ireland there is a concerted campaign by one national newspaper to demean our profession as much as libels laws permit. Thank you MOL.
All of the above contribute to constantly increasing stress levels which are not helped by " you gotta bring your A game " type comments.