New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell resigned Friday after Gov. Mikie Sherrill demanded it, following a 61-page report detailing sexual-harassment allegations and ethics violations. His lawyers disputed the report’s conclusions, saying they went beyond the evidence.
Sherrill has 45 days to name a replacement. In the meantime, Acting State Comptroller Shiley Emehelu will serve as acting secretary of state.
The report said Caldwell asked a female staffer whether her friend was single, made remarks that left female staff uncomfortable and had received a sexual-harassment complaint. It also cited free admission to selected events for his girlfriend, daughter and a friend, and requests to officials in other states to help his partner get a job. His attorneys said he did not use his office to obtain a government benefit for his girlfriend; Caldwell denied pursuing women during official business in May.
