New Jersey Governor Calls for Lieutenant Governor’s Resignation Following Misconduct Findings

TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill called for the resignation of Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell on Thursday following the release of an independent ethics investigation detailing allegations of sexual harassment and policy violations. Sherrill set a deadline of Friday for Caldwell to step down.
The demand follows a 61-page report prepared by an outside law firm commissioned by the governor's office. The investigation concluded that Caldwell engaged in multiple infractions, including making an inappropriate sexual comment to a staff member, attempting to secure a state job promotion for his girlfriend, and accepting unpaid access for personal guests at ticketed events.

"The investigation found that the Lieutenant Governor engaged in serious, repeated violations of state policy and failed to uphold the responsibilities of his office," Sherrill said in a public statement. "The ethical lapses persisted despite multiple warnings and trainings. The substantiated finding of sexual harassment is extremely troubling."

Counsel for Caldwell disputed the findings, arguing the inquiry lacked adequate procedural protections. "The Lieutenant Governor was not provided a meaningful opportunity to address each of these anonymous allegations," defense attorney Thomas Calcagni said in a statement, calling the investigation "one-sided."

Under New Jersey law, the governor lacks the authority to directly remove an elected lieutenant governor from office. However, the executive branch holds the power to strip the position of its administrative duties and operational budget, or the state Legislature may initiate formal impeachment proceedings.