“Attacking during the transition would be prime time.”
I disagree. Attacking then would guarantee the next administration would be forced to pursue them relentlessly for at least the next 4, and probably the next 8 years.
Al Qaeda made the mistake of continuing to act like Clinton was around once Dubya took over, and they learned the difference the hard way. Before that, the Iranians were smart enough to know that Reagan couldn’t be treated like Carter. I guess we’ll see whether ISIS is as smart as the Iranians or as stupid as Al Qaeda.
I hear you, but that doesn’t answer the question of why they aren’t attacking now.
Why attack today when BO (and company) will make us even weaker tomorrow, and the day after that? Meanwhile, the bad guys get stronger and continue to plan better.
They can wait for the election and see which direction we’re going. Maybe we’d continue downward under another ‘rat president for 4 more years. But, if we elect some hawk, they can pull the trigger. Yes, just like 2001 after 8 years of Clinton gutting the armed forces.
Yes, the next admin would be pissed, but depending on who launches the attack (Russians, Chinese, Iran, NKorea, AQ) and how devastating it is, it’d be worth the extra time planning and prepping to get in that first big one. And they’ll have more information this time next year. No need to show their hand earlier than necessary.
That’s just how I think. Thanks for the thoughtful response.