New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has publicly requested Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell to resign by Friday, following the conclusion of an independent investigation that substantiated allegations of sexual harassment and two separate ethics violations.
The inquiry determined that Caldwell made a sexually charged remark to a female staffer. Specifically, after the staffer mentioned that her younger friend was not interested in a romantic relationship with Caldwell, he allegedly stated, "you young women are looking for young sperm." Investigators concluded that this comment constituted sexual harassment and found Caldwell's subsequent denial of making the remark to be lacking credibility.
The staffer involved reported feeling compelled to create distance from Caldwell in her professional interactions and to avoid traveling with him whenever feasible after the incident.
"I’m calling for his resignation and giving him until tomorrow to do so," Governor Sherrill announced on Thursday, describing the confirmed finding of sexual harassment as "extremely troubling."
Findings of Misconduct Inquiry
In addition to the sexual harassment claim, the investigation also validated two instances of ethics breaches. Caldwell was found to have brought personal guests to ticketed events without obtaining prior ethics clearance or making the required payments. Furthermore, he repeatedly attempted to secure a promotion for a state employee with whom he was romantically involved.
Investigators noted that Caldwell persisted in bringing unpaid guests to events despite having received multiple training sessions and explicit warnings regarding the policy. This behavior continued even after he was formally informed of the investigation, including on May 23, just one day after receiving official notification.
Four days following the notification of the investigation, Caldwell utilized his state email account to recommend his romantic partner for a leadership position within another executive branch department. In his communication, he referred to her as "my friend" and forwarded her resume and letter of interest, without disclosing the nature of their romantic relationship while advocating for her advancement.
Caldwell's Defense and Governor's Stance
In a response submitted to investigators in May, Caldwell denied any wrongdoing, characterizing the allegations as false and misleading. He asserted his belief that the facts would ultimately exonerate him, and denied ever attempting to flirt with or ask women out during the course of his official duties.
Governor Sherrill commented that the substantiated violations indicated "a pattern of behavior" that persisted despite earlier warnings and ethics training. "The lieutenant governor’s resignation is necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents," the Democratic governor stated.
In her announcement, Sherrill also drew a parallel to national politics, remarking that President Donald Trump "continues to undermine confidence in public service at the federal level." She affirmed that she would not tolerate "a culture that sweeps misconduct under the rug" within New Jersey state government.
The comprehensive investigation was initiated in May after the state's chief ethics officer received an anonymous complaint. The complaint detailed allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women and various ethics violations. Caldwell was formally notified of the ongoing investigation on May 22.