U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy applauded President-elect Barack Obama's nomination of former rival Hillary Clinton to be secretary of state on Monday.

"Throughout her distinguished career in public service, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton has earned the respect and admiration of millions around the globe," Kennedy, a Hyannis Port Democrat, said. "She is a hardworking public servant who cares deeply about our country. This is an outstanding nomination and I look forward very much to working with President-elect Obama and Secretary-designate Clinton to restore America's standing in the world."

Obama, an Illinois Democrat, named Clinton and other members of his national security team Monday morning at a press conference in Chicago.