Though a Democrat, he governed here (with some exceptions) with a degree of fiscal sanity. He was a businessman, and got votes from business here in Virginia, both when he was elected as governor, and to the Senate recently.
He campaigned as a pro-business Democrat, and during the debates did not side with Obama on most fiscal issues. I voted for Gilmore, so don't think for a minute I like Warner, I'm just trying to answer the question.
Warner is already on the outs with most liberal dems, and thus has little to lose. I am aware he voted for this thing, but I think he could be turned.
Some Democrat may figure it out that seizing this opportunity to oppose Obama on the stimulus monstrosity may not carry much political risk, and could vault one into the favorite position to oppose Obama four years from now.
I remember him. I kept promoting him to my liberal friends who try to correct me thinking I meant John Warner.
While he is in the opposition I agree with your post.