INNER CIRCLE THE DEMOCRATS TIPPED FOR SENIOR GOVERNMENT POSITIONS

CHRIS COONS

Occupies Mr Biden’s former Delaware Senate seat and is thought a candidate for the secretary of state role or another cabinet position.

SUSAN RICE

An Obama-era national security adviser, she is being considered for the country’s top diplomatic role. She was criticised in 2012 over comments made after attacks in Benghazi, Libya.

PETE BUTTIGIEG

A former Democratic presidential candidate, he may be in line for the post of UN ambassador or veterans affairs secretary. Has no experience of federal government.

LAEL BRAINARD

A Federal Reserve governor, she is another leading contender for treasury secretary with years of practical experience, as is former Fed chairman Janet Yellen.

STACEY ABRAMS

A rising star in the Democratic party, she is also reportedly being considered for a key role but may face an uphill Senate confirmation battle.

DOUG JONES

A moderate Democrat who lost his Alabama Senate seat on Tuesday, he is thought to be under consideration for a cabinet role, possibly in the Justice Department.

BERNIE SANDERS

The former Democratic presidential candidate is reportedly angling for the role of labour secretary, but his absence in the Senate would cost Democrats.

SALLY YATES

Known for clashing with Donald Trump while his acting attorney general, she is thought to be under consideration to head up the Justice Department.

ERIC GARCETTI

The Los Angeles mayor has been tipped for housing secretary and has the necessary experience to remove longstanding racial inequalities in the sector.

TAMMY DUCKWORTH

A retired US lieutenant colonel and a double amputee, she is reportedly under consideration for a top role at the Department of Veterans Affairs.