New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s 61-page report says Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell’s conduct constituted sexual harassment and repeatedly violated state ethics rules. Sherrill called for his resignation; Caldwell’s attorney disputed the findings.
Investigators said Caldwell made a romantic advance toward a female staffer’s friend; after the advance was rejected, he allegedly told the staffer, “you young women are looking for young sperm.” Caldwell denied the comment, but the report said investigators did not find his denial credible. It also said he repeatedly sought a promotion for his girlfriend, a state employee, without disclosing their romantic relationship. Witnesses also reported Caldwell said he was looking for a “first lady”; one said he asked her to find one and was pushy after she declined.
The report said Caldwell brought personal guests to seven ticketed events from Feb. 19 to May 23 without advance ethics clearance or payment or reimbursement; tickets cost $65–$300 where known. It said he received at least six warnings or trainings on workplace conduct and ethics between January and May, but continued bringing guests after May 1 training and after formal notice of the investigation. His attorney called the inquiry one-sided and lacking due process but did not say whether Caldwell would resign. Sherrill cannot remove him unilaterally; he would have to resign or be impeached by the state Legislature.
