United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice will not serve as the next Secretary of State.

Rice was a top contender to replace Hillary Clinton, but in recent months, faced harsh criticism from Republicans for comments she made about the attack on the US consulate in Libya.

In a statement Thursday, President Obama said:

”While I deeply regret the unfair and misleading attacks on Susan Rice in recent weeks, her decision demonstrates the strength of her character, and an admirable commitment to rise above the politics of the moment to put our national interests first."

Now, Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts is considered the front-runner to fill the cabinet spot.
He serves as the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations.