President-elect Barack Obama isn't publicly wading into the debate over who should replace him in the Senate.

OBAMA: The criteria that I would have for my successor would be the same criteria that I'd have if I were a voter: somebody who is capable, somebody who is passionate about helping working families in Illinois meet their dreams. And I think there are going to be a lot of good choices out there. But it is the governor's decision to make, not mine.

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich will make the pick. Earlier this week, he said he hoped to make a decision by the end of the year.

Meantime, a number of possible candidates for Obama's Senate seat are speaking publicly about the post.

Illinois Veterans Affairs Director Tammy Duckworth has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Obama in the Senate. Duckworth says she'd be honored to get the job or an appointment in Obama's administration. But she says she hasn't heard from either the governor or Obama.

DUCKWORTH: Listen, from the minute I put on a uniform 17 years ago, I've been proud to serve this country in anyway that I can and in a couple of days I'll be celebrating the anniversary of the shot down in Iraq as a helicopter pilot. I would be honored to serve my country.

Duckworth lost both legs in that helicopter crash and ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2006.

A spokesperson for the governor confirms Duckworth is on the governor's list of candidates. He also says U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky, Jesse Jackson Jr., and Luis Gutierrez are being considered. Earlier today, Gutiterrez said he's interested in the Senate post and plans to meet with the governor about the job next week.

I'm Tasha Flournoy, Chicago Public Radio.