Former Phoenix journalist who investigated Keating Five scandal challenging McCain as Democrat

Former Phoenix journalist running against McCain

PHOENIX — A journalist whose reporting helped put a spotlight on John McCain’s role in the Keating Five savings and loan scandal is now hoping to take the Arizona senator’s seat.

John Dougherty is one of seven Democrats competing to run against McCain. His reporting into McCain’s relationship with disgraced financier Charles Keating shed light on what McCain has called the worst mistake of his life.

McCain participated in two meetings in 1987 with banking regulators on behalf of Keating, a friend, campaign contributor and constituent who later was convicted of securities fraud.

A political upstart, Dougherty is a longshot. But his presence could renew scrutiny of the Keating scandal for McCain, who is facing a GOP primary challenge from former congressman J.D. Hayworth.