He was held for two weeks while soldiers used water torture in a failed attempt to make him admit he was an activist.

CNN: PEOPLE POWER

In fact, they are all waiting for a brighter signal once again from the U.S., an alternative to this water torture of daily life that has become the EU and IMF dictated regime for recovery in Ireland, Spain, Greece, and the rest.

FORBES: New Irish Budget Reflects Struggle On Massive Debt

His opposition to torture included the process of water-boarding, a technique McCain said began during the Spanish Inquisition.

NPR: GOP Debate Showcases Candidates' Differences

As the investigation of the water cure ended and the memory of faraway torture faded, Americans answered it with their silence.

NEWYORKER: The Water Cure

Other candidates, while not endorsing torture, refused to rule out water-boarding.

NPR: GOP Hopefuls Hold Debate in South Carolina

He has edged to the right on two other areas where he used to be hated by his party's conservatives as a dangerous maverick: on torture (he won't rule out water-boarding) and immigration reform (he says fix the border first, which will take an eternity).

ECONOMIST: The presidential campaign