It's pure speculation, but I think the maverick thing is a calculated attempt to distance himself from the current administration.

Of course it is. Just like the Change thing.

Yeah. I guess I'd head that direction too. It's just so obvious that no one is happy with the current administration. Except maybe Merc?

I remember when the Rs used to be able to use the line "Are you better off than you were four years ago?" as a positive spin.

wait, what? merc's ignoring me? since when?

I think he was pissed you weren't willing to sacrifice yourself in the culling.

On the other hand, I could be wrong.

Shhhh - he really means it. Whether or not its for the better...who knows.