arg

Prior captures (saddam, other top leaders from iraq and al qaida) have given strong temporary approval rating boosts for Bush. If I recall correctly, Saddam gave him a 10 point approval rating boost, which took about a month to wear off. I think Osama's capture could have a big impact on votes, and the closer it is to election day, the better. Remember that al qaida leader we announced capturing during the democratic convention? He was caught something like three weeks earlier, and Pakistan held off on announcing it until then. Pakistan has a huge interest in keeping Bush in power (we're propping up their corrupt military dictatorship with money and arms), and would easily do the same with Osama if they thought it would help Bush.