In 2003, Iran was anxious to talk to the US. Cheney rebuffed them.

A year ago, with the build-up of our troops in Iraq, would have been a good time to talk to Iran. Cheney wasn't interested.

This year, Iran is waiting for the end of Bush's term. They've gained more leverage in Iraq. They've already met the challenge of the UN/nuclear issue sanctions. The surge is reaching its limits.

In other words, we're in a weaker position to negotiate. Only the fear of a McCain presidency might impel them to bargain. Republicans wouldn't be willing to make them any real offers.

Only a Democratic president willing to offer a normalization of relations and an end to covert support for Iran's disaffected minorities' militant groups has anything to offer.

In other words, it is already too late, and yet still too early, to bargain with Iran.