The unpopularity of the Bush-Cheney administration did soften things up for Obama. But the economic downturn (and the media) helped the One hoodwink the voters. McCain did not do enough to sway opinion in the Fall.
Oh, I dunno. He convinced over half the country to vote for 0bama. I don't like 0bama, but the thought of President McCain staggering around the White House with Meghan doesn't warm the cockles of my heart, either. No matter who won this election, I knew I'd end up with cold cockles.