I would suggest that what likely energized people in the end was the realization that ObL was trying to beat us with threats, a la Spain.
I would suggest that there is a difference between fear and resolve, as between capitulation and victory.
America has chosen a path to victory.
We want the war over; not on hold while the bad guys get even more destructive weapons. Not on hold with the same old tyrants oppressing their people.
As to the over blowing of terrorism, yes and no.
It is true that some bad guy can always use terroristic tactics to do bad things.
But the confluence of failed and/or radical states and terrorists with WMDs and state support is one that we must, even Canada, realize is mroe than a nuisance. And waiting on them to hit us is plainly self-destructive.
I wonder how many Americans will emigrate over this election?
Ed