mildfrequence A long time ago (when FF programs were "different") I joined both the AA and QF programs. The former because it "rewarded" travel in the Y cabin between my new and old countries much better and the latter because there were always some fare classes that would only credit to the local program.
But time offers the opportunity for change and the airlines continue to refine how they wish to entice their customers (and increase their profits).
Though I now have lifetime OW Ruby in both the AA and QF programs, obtaining that was never the final goal of the annual re-qualification exercise. Lounge access on international trips made and does make journeys more pleasant and (well historically) the chance of an award seat or upgrade was/may be a plus. But age is presenting fewer options for travel.
The question which is perhaps most applicable would be: Would you/could you fly the non-USA airline enough to obtain at least the initial status level (and get a modest earnings boost or even lounge access)? Are you able to access and use the special offers the FF program will periodically present?
May you find a program that presents opportunities for inexpensive and pleasant wandering
Fred