I can see a couple backdoor deals here. One between the GOP and Murk/Collins, one between the GOP and the rats. In either case, Kav gets the nomination, and the other side gets to save face.
Now, certainly nothing like this would go on in our most august upper house. But, if it did, who would be the perfect fall guy?
BTW, speaking of backdoor deals, remember this one from way back? "Why don't Congressmen use bookmarks?"