Tom Ridge is an American politician and businessman who served as the first Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security from 2003 to 2005. He was appointed by President George W. Bush in the wake of the September 11 attacks, focusing on protecting the nation from terrorism and enhancing emergency preparedness. Before his role in Homeland Security, Ridge was the Governor of Pennsylvania from 1995 to 2001. He was a member of the Republican Party and also served in the U.S. House of Representatives. Ridge has been involved in various business and philanthropic activities after leaving public office.