Associated Press - November 27, 2009 3:34 PM ET

PHOENIX (AP) - Since losing the presidency, John McCain has focused on his work in the Senate.

The Arizona Republican's voting record has improved greatly this legislative session. He's missed only nine votes, or 2.5 percent of the 353 Senate roll-call votes through Saturday.

While running for the White House during the 2007 and 2008 sessions of the 110th Congress, McCain missed 420 votes, or 63.9 percent, of 657 opportunities.

During the first 11 months of 2009, McCain has cast 344 votes - more than the 237 votes he cast in the prior two years combined.

McCain said Arizona voters understand his absenteeism was a consequence of running for president and doesn't think they will hold it against him as he seeks re-election next year.

Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com

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