New Jersey Lt. Gov. Caldwell Called to Resign Following Investigation Findings
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has requested that her chosen Lieutenant Governor, Dale Caldwell, resign by Friday. This call comes after an independent investigation confirmed allegations of sexual harassment and two ethics violations against him.
The investigation revealed that Caldwell made an inappropriate comment to a female staff member, suggesting that “young women are looking for young sperm” after she mentioned that her younger friend was uninterested in him romantically. The investigators deemed this comment as sexual harassment and found Caldwell’s denial of making it unconvincing.
As a result of the incident, the staffer sought to distance herself from Caldwell in the workplace, avoiding travel with him whenever possible.
Sherrill expressed her dismay regarding the findings, describing the substantiated harassment as “extremely troubling.” She indicated she expects Caldwell to step down immediately.
The report also confirmed two ethics violations. It found that Caldwell had invited personal guests to official events without obtaining the necessary ethical clearance or making payment. Furthermore, he persistently tried to secure a promotion for a state employee with whom he was romantically involved.
Despite having received multiple warnings and undergoing training, investigators noted that Caldwell continued to bring unpaid guests to events, even after he had been made aware of the investigation.
In a notable incident four days after receiving notice of the probe, Caldwell used his state email to endorse his romantic partner for a leadership position within another department, referring to her as “my friend” and forwarding her resume. He did not disclose their relationship during this promotion attempt.
Caldwell has since denied any wrongdoing, asserting in a response to investigators that the allegations were unfounded and misleading. He claimed he believed that the truth would ultimately vindicate him and rejected the idea that he acted inappropriately while conducting official affairs.
Sherrill, in her remarks, suggested that Caldwell’s actions reflected a “pattern of behavior” that persisted despite clear instruction and warnings. She emphasized that his resignation was essential for the well-being of New Jersey’s residents.
Additionally, Sherrill criticized former President Donald Trump, suggesting he has eroded trust in public service, stating that she will not tolerate a culture that conceals misconduct in New Jersey.
The investigation was prompted by an anonymous complaint received in May, which alleged Caldwell’s inappropriate behavior towards women and ethics violations. Caldwell was formally notified of these allegations on May 22.
