The Keating Five thing. He couldn't stand the idea that his rep had been besmirched, so he did what many stupid Republicans have done--do what he thinks will make Democrats like him.
Chris Matthews adored McCain for a long time, and McCain ate it up.
Too many Republicans love being "liked" by the libs and the media. If I were a Senator, whenever one of those fools came near me I'd sick my dogs on them.
For some reason they do. But it is a Faustian deal. For myself I say what I think and don't give a crap what anyone else thinks. If McCain would take that track it would suit his purpose better.