- New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill called on Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign by Friday after an independent investigation substantiated sexual harassment and two ethics violations.
- The investigation found Caldwell sexually harassed a young female staffer and her friend, and violated ethics rules by promoting a state employee he had a romantic relationship with and by taking personal guests to ticketed events without payment.
- Sherrill stated that Caldwell's ethical lapses persisted despite warnings and trainings, and that the substantiated finding of sexual harassment was extremely troubling.
- Caldwell's lawyers disputed the investigation's findings, claiming the process lacked due process and was one-sided.
- State Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco called the findings deeply disappointing and suggested legislative action if Caldwell does not resign.
- Caldwell denied wrongdoing in a May response to investigators, calling the allegations false and misleading and saying he believed the facts would exonerate him.
- Caldwell is only the fourth lieutenant governor in New Jersey history, a role established by referendum in 2005, and he has served as acting governor numerous times during the investigation.
- Caldwell also serves as New Jersey's secretary of state, overseeing elections, a critical role as the midterm elections approach.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has demanded the resignation of Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell by Friday following an independent investigation that confirmed serious violations of state ethics and harassment policies. The investigation revealed Caldwell's inappropriate comments and unethical conduct, including sexual harassment of a female staffer.1
Sherrill stated, “The substantiated finding of sexual harassment is extremely troubling. I’ve seen firsthand how a hostile culture can undermine everyone’s ability to succeed.” The report detailed Caldwell's inappropriate remark to a staffer, stating, “you young women are looking for young sperm,” which investigators deemed credible harassment.5
Additionally, Caldwell was found to have violated ethics rules by attempting to promote a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship without disclosing it. He also improperly brought personal guests to ticketed events without payment, despite multiple warnings.
Caldwell's lawyers have strongly disputed the investigation's findings, claiming the process lacked due process and that he was not given a fair chance to defend himself. Lawyer Thomas Calcagni stated, “This unnecessarily protracted and one-sided process lacked the requisite due process that should be afforded every citizen of this state.”67
As Caldwell is New Jersey's secretary of state, his role is critical, especially with midterm elections approaching. Sherrill emphasized that Caldwell's resignation is essential for restoring trust in public service, stating, “The lieutenant governor’s resignation is necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents.”13
“The 61-page report found Caldwell sexually harassed a young female staffer and her friend, and he continued bringing unpaid guests to events despite warnings, including one day after being notified. Caldwell's lawyers called the process 'one-sided' and lacking due process, while Senate Republican Leader Bucco suggested legislative action if he doesn't resign.”
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