New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill gave Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell until the next day to resign after an investigation found he sexually harassed a staffer and her friend and violated state ethics rules. His lawyers disputed the findings.
The 61-page report said Caldwell used his office on multiple occasions to try to promote a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship, without disclosing it. It also said he made a practice of taking personal guests to ticketed events without paying or reimbursing for tickets. Sherrill said the ethical lapses continued despite multiple warnings and trainings.
Caldwell has denied the allegations. His lawyers said the investigation was one-sided and that he did not have a meaningful opportunity to answer anonymous allegations or offer witnesses. Caldwell also serves as New Jersey secretary of state, overseeing elections ahead of November’s midterms. State Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco said the Legislature should follow necessary protocols if Caldwell does not resign.
