Ridge, the former governor of Pennsylvania, was the first director of Homeland Security -- a federal department formed hastily in the wake of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. He left that post in late November, saying he wanted to pursue opportunities in the private sector.
"We are honored to have [Ridge] join our board, where we expect that his unique global experience and perspective will make a profound contribution to our company and our shareholders," said Home Depot Chief Executive Bob Nardelli.
Ridge is quite familiar with home-improvement projects. He was instrumental in a short-lived run on duct tape in early 2003, when he encouraged Americans to turn to the sticky substance and plastic sheeting as protection against terrorists using chemical and/or biological agents.
The move, which drew criticism from many corners, motivated many across the country to stock up -- to the extent that some retailers reported widespread shortages.
Does the reporter, one Jennifer Waters of Marketwatch, actually believe that Ridge's duct tape recommendation had anything to do with his getting hired or is she just aiming a barb at the Homeland Security Department by suggesting that he recommended duct tape in order to "get in good" with the home improvement industry?
(via Captain Normal)