"Political observers are, for the most part, in agreement that a major terrorist attack prior to the election will help Bush, not Kerry (a view, BTW, with which I am in agreement). You can be sure the terrorists are aware of this. So, if they really want Kerry to win, why would they make a major attack before the election, thereby helping Bush???"

Which political observers are you reading or listening to Jim? If this country suffers a major hit before the election, it would be the fault of the Bush administration for not preventing it, leading to a backlash against Bush. Total blame would be placed in Bush's lap and he could well lose the election as a direct result of it. Such an incident would not make him stronger in any way. Think about it....