Today the Homeland Security Act was signed into being. It was passed by overwhelming margins in both the house and the senate. I have read many praises of the new department

"the department will reduce America's vulnerabilities and help the country respond better to any future terrorist attacks." ~ CNN

as well as some serious concerns.

"The bill passed over Democratic objections that it was loaded with provisions having nothing to do with homeland security, such as liability protection for vaccine manufacturers and exemptions to the Freedom of Information Act." ~ CNN
"Among the implications...new authority for agencies to collect and mine data on individuals and groups... Limits on the information citizens can request under the Freedom of Information Act, and criminal penalties for government employees who leak information...more latitude for government advisory committees to meet in secret..." ~ CSM

Tom Ridge is in charge of coordinating the 170,000 people and $37 billion worth of funding. What do I know about this guy? He was in the running for Vice Presidency a couple of times, he was re-elected as Governor of Pennsylvania 6 times, and he has signed 200+ execution warrents. Beyond that, I don't know much.

Sources:
Christian Science Monitor
CNN News