Speaking at a televised town hall here, Clinton, 63, said she has had a “fascinating and rewarding public career,” starting off as an advocate for children. She noted that she had served eight years as first lady and eight years as senator; 2011 will be her third year as the chief U.S. diplomat.

“I think I will serve as secretary of state as my last public position and the probably go back to advocacy, and probably on behalf of women and children,” she said.