Does Kerry Now Top The List For Secretary Of State?

Massachusetts voters could be looking at yet another special Senate election now that Sen. John Kerry is seen as a lead contender for Secretary of State. 

Kerry had long been considered a possible nominee to the post but the decision of U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice to withdraw her name from consideration has propelled Kerry to the top of the list as President Obama fills out his cabinet for his second term.

If he is nominated by Obama and confirmed by his fellow senators, Kerry would resign from the seat he's held for nearly three decades, triggering a special election _ the state's third Senate contest since 2010.

Under current law, Gov. Deval Patrick would appoint an interim senator to serve until a special election could be held.

There's no shortage of speculation of possible candidates. (Associated Press)