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Ridge Confirmed as Secretary of DHS

Release Date: 01/23/03 00:00:00

On January 22, Tom Ridge, of Pennsylvania, was confirmed, 94-0, by the U.S. Senate as the first Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

During the confirmation hearing, Mr. Ridge emphasized the efforts of federal and local governments during the past 16 months in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks, stating, "America is undoubtedly safer and better prepared today than on September 10, 2001." Ridge cited the increase in cargo and air passenger inspections, and coordination among law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

This page was last reviewed/modified on 01/23/03 00:00:00.