McCain, Letterman Make Up

John McCain finally made it back on David Letterman's show, and he promptly issued two apologies—one to Dave and one to Joe the Plumber. In an appearance taped to air tonight, McCain apologized to Letterman for canceling a September appearance at the last minute. "I screwed up," he said. He also apologized to the now-famous Ohio plumber because he's been picked apart in the press, Politico notes. "Joe, if you're watching, I'm sorry," he said.

Letterman, who endlessly ridiculed McCain after the cancellation, was in a forgiving mood. "Can you stay? he asked. "Yes sir," McCain replied. "Depends on how bad it gets." A bit later, Letterman said, "I'm willing to put this behind us." McCain took no chances this time. Running late at the Philly airport, he took a helicopter to Manhattan so he wouldn't be late. (More John McCain stories.)