I do not think American would respond as Spain did to terrorists attacks before an election. I think it would infuriate the nation and Bush would win by the greatest landslide ever. Americans are different than Europeans..They will stand strong when "push comes to shove."
I agree, the country would get mad and get even. But if the worst happened in NY during the convention, it would look as if GW were incompetent...that's how RATs would spin it. 'Give Kerry a chance, he'll keep us safe, etc...'