McCain is not that bright ... he graduated near the bottom of his class at Annapolis. He probably would have been kicked out had it not been for the fact his father & grandfather both were Annapolis grads that went on to become Admirals. Typically someone graduating at the bottom of the class at the Naval Academy doesn't get a shot at becoming a Navy pilot, McCain was an exception. At best he was only mediocre in his role as a Naval aviator.
Mediocrity defines John McCain.
I read that he lost (crashed) three planes during his illustrious career. How bright can he be ?
McCain lied a lot about his Viet Nam / Navy experience.
The following article tells a lot.
http://www.pythiapress.com/wartales/McCain-Shootdown.htm