Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff is the newest member of President Bush’s Cabinet to blog, launching the Leadership Journal this week. A month ago Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt launched the first Cabinet-level blog in the administration. He’s continued to update it every few days.

Chertoff had this to say in his inaugural post:

I’ve started this journal to open a dialogue with the American people about our nation’s security. I would like to hear your thoughts about the steps we’re taking to keep the nation safe. This way, we can learn more about concerns you have within your states and communities. And I want to hear fresh ideas and even constructive criticism about our Department. From time to time, I’ll take a moment to write about issues on my mind, and I’ll invite other members of the Department leadership to offer their thoughts as well.

The post goes on to feature Chertoff’s memories about 9/11. Congratulations to the team at DHS for taking this step. Hopefully it will serve as inspiration for other departments. (Hat tip to David All.)