BREAKING: Tom Ridge Resigns

From ABC News:

Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge has informed the White House and department staff that he has resigned, U.S. officials said Tuesday.

In an e-mail circulated to senior Homeland Security officials, Ridge praised the department as "an extraordinary organization that each day contributes to keeping America safe and free." He also said he was privileged to work with the department's 180,000 employees "who go to work every day dedicated to making our company better and more secure."

A news conference has been set for 2:45 p.m.

Bring on Rudi! I would be very surprised if Guilani isn't named as Ridge's successor...

12/1 Update

Via InstaMan...the Anchoress predicts Bernie Kerik for Homeland Security...that would be a good pick too.

10:15AM Update

The Diplomad has a review of Ridge's tenure and a roundup of the issues his replacement will have to face.

Islamofascism Delenda Est!