McCain arrived on the Senate floor just after midnight, when debate on the “skinny” bill ended.

AD

The drama started when reporters noticed Pence talking to McCain for an extended period of time.

Then, McCain walked over to the Democratic side of the floor, and was seen speaking to Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) and other Democrats.

He got a hug from California Democrat Sen. Dianne Feinstein (in purple).

Sens. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) were among the Republicans seen apparently attempting to persuade McCain to change his vote (visible near the top of the frame).

But when the time came to cast his ballot, McCain was a firm “no.”

Take a look at the body language in the room. Democrats look positively giddy (several audibly gasp, while others clap). Schumer immediately waves at his caucus to stop celebrating.

Meanwhile, Sen. Mitch McConnell looks on with his arms crossed, resigned to defeat, as the rest of the GOP leadership team stands silently. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) lets his head drop.