WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama is nominating former first daughter Caroline Kennedy as U.S. ambassador to Japan.

The author, attorney and most well-known living member of the Kennedy family supported Obama's campaign for the White House where her father served until his assassination 50 years ago.

Japan is used to having prominent Americans serve as envoys. Former U.S. ambassadors to Japan include former Vice President Walter Mondale, former House Speaker Tom Foley and former Senate Majority Leaders Mike Mansfield and Howard Baker.

But Kennedy would be the first woman, if she is confirmed by the Senate.