Fourgold...the Yanks do impose a tough entry process to the USA, even for their 'special relationship' brothers.
Not sure if you are aware, but we all have to apply online now 24 hours in advance now to enter on the visa waiver programme, they finger print us on entry and photograph us while we have to offer addresses and names of hotels where we will be staying.
In short, it is a pain, but a neccessary process.