In 2004, Kerry ran for president, and won the Democratic Party’s nomination. “I know the reach of our power, and I know the power of our ideals. We need to make America once again a beacon in the world. We need to be looked up to, not just feared,” Kerry said.

His lost, but remained in the Senate. In 2009, Kerry presided over the confirmation of President Obama's first secretary of state.

“Hillary Clinton has shown the intelligence to navigate the complex issues we face,” Kerry said.

Political scientist Thomas Mann says Kerry is well-suited to be America’s top diplomat.

“Senator Kerry is bright and experienced. I think he would be an effective diplomat and partner in foreign policy-making for the administration,” Mann said.

No serious opposition to Kerry’s nomination would be expected from his Senate colleagues. Republican Senator John McCain recently implied Kerry's confirmation would be a sure bet, referring to the Massachusetts Democrat as “Mr. Secretary.”