Take a closer look at Tom Ridge

Gov. Tom Ridge

Overview: President George W. Bush has appointed Governor Tom Ridge as head of the newly created Cabinet post of the Office of the Homeland Security. Examine the origin of this position and its role and responsibilities. After students have conducted further research about Tom Ridge and the newly-formed department, and have them write speeches from his perspective to the people in the United States on his position.

Curriculum Connections: Government, Current Issues

After students read the CNNfyi.com story, "New Cabinet post: Director of Homeland Security," ask the following questions:

1. Who is Tom Ridge? What is his new position? What will be some responsibilities of this position? Do you think the Director of Homeland Security is necessary? Why or why not? Do you think this is an effective way to address the risks of terrorism? Explain.

2. Why do you think a senior administration official described the job as a "domestic version of the National Security Adviser"? How do you think National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice and Tom Ridge will share their resources? Why do you think it is important for this position to be supported by Congress?

3. Inform students that in President Bush's speech to Congress on September 20, 2001, he stated that this position "will lead, oversee and coordinate a comprehensive national strategy to safeguard our country against terrorism and respond to any attacks that may come." According to this statement, what do you think are Bush's expectations of the Director of Homeland Security?

4.Refer students to the second Web site below to learn more about the Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Act. Ask students: Why do you think this act was established one year after the bombing in Oklahoma? According to the act, what are the requirements of the position for the head of the Office of Homeland Security? Why do you think the head of the Department of Defense is not eligible for this job? What responsibilities and authority will be given to Tom Ridge as Director of Homeland Security?

5. Have students research and identify challenges associated with protecting the U.S. against terrorism, and combined with what they have learned about Tom Ridge, write speeches from his perspective on the mission of the new department.