Look at this Gem from MSNBC - The code of what "my friend(s)" means:

[weezie1317]

Those who travel regularly with McCain know that there is a hierarchy to McCain's nicknames. People who he calls a "little jerk," are those he likes. 'My friends,' plural is also a sign of generic affection, but a singular 'my friend' only comes out when McCain's getting frustrated.

During that last answer on the housing market, McCain appeared to turn to Obama, saying, "My friend, I'd like to you to see the letter that I wrote warning about this situation."

[zbdent]

1. I think the new dictionary says it's Yiddish for

"you scum ..."