"...no new terrorist attacks in the US in the past three years."

Bush in the White House suits Al Qaida down to the ground - the world situation now, including the situation in Iraq, is far more favourable for that variety of fanaticism then it was back in 2001.

Terrorist attacks in the USA over the last few years could well have damaged Bush's position. Terrorist attacks at this point would probably help him win the election.

If there isn't an Al Qaida spectacular in the USA over the next few weeks it will be astonishing.