US Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, who has headed President George W. Bush's efforts to build up domestic security following the September 11th attacks, has resigned.
Mr Ridge, the first head of the newly created department, sent a letter to Mr Bush today and was due to announce his decision to leave in February at a news conference later today.
"After more than 22 consecutive years of public service, it is time to give personal and family matters a higher priority," Mr Ridge said in the letter. "With your concurrence, it is my desire to continue to serve as Secretary until February 1st, 2005 or until the Senate confirms my successor."
The department, which merged all or parts of 22 federal agencies, was created in January 2003 in the biggest government revamping in 50 years. The new agency was charged with preventing future attacks on the United States and minimizing damage from any that do occur.
"There will always be more to do, but today, America is significantly stronger and safer than ever before," Mr Ridge wrote.
Mr Ridge (59), resigned as governor of Pennsylvania in October 2001 at Mr Bush's request to become the president's homeland security adviser. He was later named the first homeland security secretary.