New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill Calls for Resignation of Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell Following Sexual Harassment Investigation

<p>New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill called for Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign by Friday after an independent investigation substantiated claims of sexual harassment and two ethics violations. The investigation found that Caldwell made a sexually charged remark to a female staffer, stating, "you young women are looking for young sperm" after she mentioned her younger friend was not interested in a romantic relationship with him.</p><p>Investigators concluded that the remark constituted sexual harassment and deemed Caldwell's denial of making the comment as not credible. The staffer reported that she attempted to distance herself from Caldwell at work and avoided traveling with him when possible.</p><p>Sherrill stated, "I’m calling for his resignation and giving him until tomorrow to do so," describing the substantiated sexual harassment finding as "extremely troubling." The report also confirmed two ethics violations, indicating that Caldwell brought personal guests to ticketed events without prior ethics clearance or payment and attempted to secure a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship.</p><p>Despite receiving training and warnings, Caldwell continued to bring unpaid guests to events, including on May 23, one day after being formally notified of the investigation. Four days after receiving notice, he used his state email account to recommend his romantic partner for a leadership position in another department, referring to her as "my friend" and forwarding her resume and letter of interest without disclosing their romantic relationship.</p><p>Caldwell denied any wrongdoing in a May response to investigators, calling the allegations false and misleading, and expressed his belief that the facts would exonerate him. He denied making advances toward women while conducting official business.</p><p>Sherrill stated that the violations reflected "a pattern of behavior" that persisted despite warnings and training, asserting that Caldwell's resignation is necessary for the best interest of New Jersey residents. In her announcement, she also criticized President Donald Trump, stating that he "continues to undermine confidence in public service at the federal level" and emphasized her refusal to accept a culture that "sweeps misconduct under the rug" in New Jersey.</p><p>The investigation was initiated after the state's chief ethics officer received an anonymous complaint in May alleging inappropriate behavior toward women and ethics violations. Caldwell was formally notified of the investigation on May 22.</p>