I have not experienced the reduced air conditioning as described by the OP, though that is probably due to not trying to get the temperature down to 63-66 degrees. I do wish more US hotels would have rooms with windows that open. It is a real treat in other areas of the world to have fresh air.

A bigger pet peeve for me is the air conditioner which blows directly onto the desk/chair area. Very uncomfortable when trying to work / surf / etc.

My solution is a make-shift barrier constructed with a bath towel draped over the ironing board and set directly in front of the Air Conditioner.
Anyone else do this?