Don’t get me wrong; I don’t want to sound ungrateful about yesterday. Cunningham was being a jerk at an official campaign event, and McCain did the right thing by distancing himself from the loudmouth’s remarks. He made the right call, without question, and deserves praise for it.

But it’s probably worth remembering that McCain takes classy steps like these in part to help make up for the fact that he’s been a rather abusive hothead for years, who has rejected the notion of “respectful” debate throughout his career.

If yesterday was a sign of a new McCain, I’m delighted. But before we go overboard praising his character, let’s not loose sight of a lengthy career of nastiness.