Graham’s Consideration of 2016 Complicates South Carolina Landscape

South Carolina voters often think of themselves as presidential tie-breakers, enjoying their prime role as the next to cast ballots after Iowa's caucuses and New Hampshire's primary.

But what if there's a ringer in the race?

The state's senior senator, Republican Lindsey Graham, is flirting with running for president, launching a campaign-like organization and starting to lay the groundwork for a bid.

His potential entry into the race has put his state's political talent into a holding pattern, but such loyalty shouldn't be viewed as a harbinger of Graham coasting to an easy win in South Carolina.

Graham has said he plans to assess his viability outside South Carolina, suggesting he will not run if he can't raise money and establish a network of support in Iowa and New Hampshire.