"Huma Abedin has the energy of a woman in her 20s, the confidence of a woman in her 30s, the experience of a woman in her 40s and the grace of a woman in her 50s," Clinton told Vogue. "She is timeless. Her combination of poise, kindness and intelligence are matchless."

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Abedin and Weiner got to know one another during Clinton's presidential campaign, clocking long hours traveling together across Iowa and other voting states. The brash, media-hungry Weiner and the refined, discreet Abedin seemed an unlikely match at first. They are also an interfaith couple: Weiner is Jewish and a strong supporter of Israel in Congress, while Abedin - who was born in Michigan to parents of Pakistani and Indian descent, but grew up in Saudi Arabia and speaks fluent Arabic - is a practicing Muslim. But friends say they are intensely affectionate with one another and relish each other's company.

The couple became engaged in 2009, shortly after he announced he would not run for New York City mayor that year in part because he wanted to "build a family." They were married by Bill Clinton in a lavish garden wedding at the Oheka Castle on Long Island last July, Abedin wearing an elaborate gown designed by Oscar de la Renta, a personal friend.

Weiner called the former president yesterday to apologize for his online indiscretions, a person with knowledge of the call said.