Its mission will be to work with Congress as lawmakers consider legislation to create a new Department of Homeland Security and to "coordinate, guide and conduct transition and related planning" throughout the federal government in preparation for the establishment of the new massive federal agency, according to the executive order.

CNN: Ridge to head security transition office

President Obama and Prime Minister Erdogan spoke by telephone today to coordinate efforts to accelerate a political transition in Syria, which would include the departure of Bashar al-Assad and be responsive to the legitimate demands of the Syrian people.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House