Ex-NJ Lt. Gov. Caldwell Denies Probe Findings, Cites Distraction for Resignation
Former Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell publicly disputed the findings of a sexual harassment and ethics investigation that led to his resignation, calling the report "ridiculous" and stating he stepped down to avoid distracting the governor.
Former New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell has asserted that his resignation was a move to prevent becoming a distraction to Gov. Mikie Sherrill's administration, while simultaneously challenging the integrity of the sexual harassment and ethics probe that prompted his departure. Caldwell, speaking publicly for the first time since his resignation, described the independent ethics investigation as "specious," "ridiculous," and "poorly done."
His resignation came a day after Governor Sherrill publicly called for his resignation, following the release of a 61-page report detailing ethics violations. The report included a substantiated finding of sexual harassment and improper efforts to secure a state job promotion for a woman with whom he was romantically involved.
Caldwell stated that he was not resigning due to the report's findings but rather to ensure that his situation did not impede the success of the Sherrill administration. "I'm resigning because I don't want to be a distraction to the Mikie Sherrill Administration," he said.
When questioned about the allegations, Caldwell encouraged the public to review the report but indicated that specifics would be provided through his attorney. He expressed disappointment with the quality of the investigation's legal work.
According to the probe conducted by an independent law firm, Caldwell violated ethics rules, including making a sexually harassing comment to a female staffer. Investigators found his denial of the remark not credible. The report also cited violations related to guests at ticketed events and seeking a promotion for an employee with whom he had a romantic relationship.
Caldwell's attorneys have stated they "strongly disputed the three findings in the investigation," asserting that its conclusions exceeded the evidence. Governor Sherrill, however, defended the investigation as "very thorough," detailing a pattern of concerning behavior that continued despite ethics training.
Caldwell also served as New Jersey's Secretary of State. With his resignation, acting comptroller Shirley Emehelu will assume the role of acting Secretary of State. Governor Sherrill confirmed she will appoint a permanent successor to the lieutenant governorship within the constitutionally mandated 45-day period, but will not name an interim lieutenant governor. In the interim, Senate President Nicholas Scutari would be next in the line of gubernatorial succession.