McCain actually did what the Senate used to do and that was advise and consent on justices when there were democrat presidents. The dems on the other hand feel no need to stick to the traditions of the senate when a conservative is nominated.
McCain huddled with the Democrats to prevent President Bush from exercising his right to appoint Judges as he saw fit. A right that Bush won with the election. There was no obligation nor mandate to "share" power with the left.