LARA JAKES
AP National Security Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) — The State Department has tapped one of its top policy officials to fill in as its acting deputy secretary.

Undersecretary of State Wendy Sherman is believed to be a top candidate for the State Department’s No. 2 job that was recently vacated by retiring Deputy Secretary of State William Burns.

Sherman currently oversees the State Department’s day-to-day policy issues, including the U.S. role in negotiations between world powers and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear program.

The State Department on Monday said Sherman would continue to serve in that role, as well as serve as the agency’s deputy secretary until the White House nominates a permanent replacement.

White House Deputy National Security Adviser Antony Blinken also is considered a contender for the State job.

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