What is it that separates John McCain from the ordinary Republican?

I just listened to a report on Potus 08. (for those of you that don't have XM radio it is well worth it-unbiased,non partisan and both sides of the issues) The report stated that a recent poll suggests a situation similar to 1994 except the parties are reversed.The poll indicates that American voters now prefer "generic" Democrats over"generic" Republicans by a margin of fifty five to thirty three.The poll also indicates that John McCain is an exception to the preference of Republicans scoring in popularity almost even with Democrats.What in your opinion separates John McCain from the rest of the Republicans?