President Barack Obama has had a tremendous influence on South Carolina politics during his first 100 days in office.
Obama's plan to pump billions of dollars in federal stimulus money into states has become the state's dominant political issue of this spring.
Meanwhile, Obama has elevated the profiles of friends and foes alike.
The influence of House Majority Whip James Clyburn, the Columbia Democrat and ardent Obama ally, has never been greater.
And the political profile of S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford has soared as the Republican has built a national reputation opposing Obama’s policies.
Obama even succeeded in making a national symbol out of Dillon County eighth-grader who wants better school facilities.
Still, three months after he entered office, S.C. residents are divided about Obama's approach to the economy, the budget and other issues. Many worry about the country’s direction.
Surveys show slightly more S.C. residents approve of the job Obama is doing than disapprove.
"I think he’s doing a good job," said Columbia resident Mary Orrell, who works at a glass shop.
"He has so many things he’s trying to do at once," said Orrell, adding it is unfair to evaluate Obama after only 100 days in office.
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