WASHINGTON -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's confirmation hearing to become secretary of state will be Tuesday.

Incoming Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman Sen. John Kerry said Wednesday he will chair the morning hearing on President-elect Barack Obama's pick for the top foreign policy post.

Republicans and Democrats have said they expect no serious objections to her confirmation.

The timetable for Clinton's confirmation has been closely watched since it would give New York Gov. David Paterson the power to appoint her Senate successor.

Caroline Kennedy, the scion of a political dynasty, wants the job and Paterson has said he's considering her along with other candidates.