maverick, darn it

So, I'm watching the vice presidential debates, and among the other things that came to my mind, including the mispronunciation of the word "nuclear" and the over use of "darn it", was why the nickname "maverick" for McCain and Palin was so confusing to me. Why am I having such a hard time equating this term to this ticket? I hear "maverick" thrown around and I just don't know what that means. Well, I've decided what my problem is...it's because the only Maverick I know is Tom Cruise from the good old days, before we knew how crazy he is. Maybe that's the real equation.

Maverick: What's your problem, Kazanski?
Iceman: You're everyone's problem. That's because every time you go up in the air, you're unsafe. I don't like you because you're dangerous.
Maverick: That's right! Ice... man. I am dangerous.

Maybe we've all just lost that lovin' feelin'?