Caroline Kennedy tipped to be next ambassador to Japan

Caroline Kennedy is being considered as the next US ambassador to Japan, the first female to take the position.

A Democrat familiar with the discussions told CNN the author and lawyer has been asked to take over the post when John Roos steps down, and she is currently being vetted for the post.

The 55-year-old was one of the earliest supporters of President Barack Obama in his first presidential campaign and her endorsement was significant in helping him defeat Hillary Clinton in the Democratic presidential primary that year, Reuters reported.

But White House spokesman Jay Carney would not comment on the Kennedy rumor.

"I have no personnel announcements to make," he said.

The New York Post reported Kennedy is expected to "thrill the Japanese," because they "like their American ambassadors to be superstars."

Previous ambassadors have included former VP Walter Mondale and former House Speaker Tom Foley. If Kennedy is nominated for the post, she will replace John Roos, who is expected to step down soon.