Actually, Matthews as a D is in perpetual conflict; he has red-state sensibilities. Also, he was at the White House with Bush the night before the program. Bush charm likely loosened him up a bit. ;)
Occasionally Mathews common sense comes to bare. During the 2000 fiasco I thought he was fair to Bush and even harsh to the Democrats at times.
Can you please explain what he's currently ever said/done that leaves you with that conclusion. I say current as Matthews has either changed his stripes since 2000 or isn't afraid to wear his bias on his sleeve.