(AP) — As President Barack Obama reached his 100th day in office Wednesday, some in Iowa credited him with pushing through federal spending that prevented huge cuts in programs for vulnerable residents.

Even those supporters acknowledged, however, that the federal money was a temporary crutch that could create later budget headaches.

"The stimulus package helped maintain that stability," said Sen. Jack Hatch, D-Des Moines. "We know this is one-time, for 27 months, and we are going to have a big problem next year."

Hatch and other liberal activists held a news conference to mark Obama's 100th day as president. They argued the economic stimulus plan has been the key to the opening days of Obama's presidency.

Even with the federal help, Iowa lawmakers were forced to make significant cuts, but Hatch said it could have been much worse.

"We avoided a devastating impact on social services in this state," he said.

Carrie Fitzgerald, of the Des Moines-based Child and Family Policy Center, noted the Legislature approved an expansion of health coverage to 53,000 more children. The expansion cost the state about $7.5 million, a figure reduced because of the federal spending.

"Iowa now has a guaranteed source of federal funding for children's health care," she said. "President Obama sent the undeniable signal that the health of our children matters."

Asked about the president's first 100 days, Jeffrey Boeyink, executive director of the Republican Party of Iowa, had a different take. He said Obama has accomplished little more than expanding government and running up debt.

He dismissed polling numbers showing Obama's approval ratings remaining high.

"People want the country to succeed," said Boeyink. "That accounts for his polling numbers."

Hatch said the federal money

Charlie Wishman, of the Iowa Citizen Action Network, said it's difficult to make the case that Obama hasn't changed Washington.

"No matter what your political leanings, it's hard to argue that the past 100 days haven't been a major departure from the last eight years," said Wishman, whose group describes itself as a consumer and environmental watchdog organization. "Last November, Americans voted for change and this represents a substantial fulfillment of that promise."