New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell resigned Friday, following an independent investigation that found Caldwell had violated multiple state policies, including sexual harassment and violations of state ethics rules.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill called for Caldwell’s resignation on Thursday, saying his departure was necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents.
At a press conference on Friday, Sherrill confirmed Caldwell had submitted his resignation to her and that she had accepted it.
“As outlined in the report, the investigation found that the lieutenant governor failed to uphold the responsibilities of his office,” Sherrill said.
The investigation examined Caldwell’s conduct as lieutenant governor and secretary of state. According to findings released by the governor’s office, Caldwell violated state ethics policies and the Code of Conduct, including conduct investigators determined “constituted sexual harassment, and was derogatory or demeaning in reference to the staffer’s sex.”
The investigation found that Caldwell made a romantic advance toward a female staffer’s friend. After the advance was rejected, Caldwell allegedly directed a sexual comment toward the staffer. Investigators determined the comment constituted sexual harassment and violated New Jersey workplace policy prohibiting discrimination.
The investigation found that the ethical violations continued despite warnings and trainings.
Sherrill said that leaders have a responsibility to ensure employees can perform their duties and contribute to an organization’s mission.
“I’ve seen firsthand how a hostile culture can undermine everyone’s ability to succeed,” Sherrill said.
The investigation also found that Caldwell violated state ethics rules in connection with a romantic relationship with a state employee. According to the findings, Caldwell advocated for the employee to be promoted without disclosing the relationship.
Additionally, investigators found evidence that Caldwell brought personal guests to ticketed events without obtaining the required clearance or reimbursing the state for costs.
Caldwell has disputed the findings. The Washington Post reported that he told investigators that he has not asked anyone on a date, “hit on” anyone or pursued anyone romantically while conducting official business. He also argued that advocating for his girlfriend was not a violation of ethics rules.
According to the governor’s statement, the investigation was initiated by New Jersey’s chief ethics officer and conducted by former New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino. Sherrill described the investigation as thorough and impartial, saying investigators examined the evidence while protecting the privacy of those who were involved.
The investigation began in May after the state’s chief ethics officer received an anonymous letter outlining allegations against Caldwell.
Caldwell served as both lieutenant governor and secretary of state, making him responsible for state election oversight and service as acting governor while the governor is out of state. His resignation changes New Jersey’s executive leadership less than a year into Sherrill’s administration.
Although Sherrill thanked Caldwell for his service “both on the campaign and in the first months of this administration particularly in supporting our business agenda,” she framed his conduct within broader expectations for public officials and members of her administration. Sherrill stated that public service carries significant responsibilities and emphasized her administration must uphold ethical standards.
New Jersey acting State Comptroller Shirley Emehelu has been appointed acting secretary of state.
“I will always put the interests of the people of New Jersey first,” Sherrill said.
Elizabeth Maria Churchill is the assistant editor of The Setonian’s News section. She can be reached at elizabethmaria.churchill@student.shu.edu.
