New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell Resigns Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations
Governor Mikie Sherrill called for Caldwell's resignation following the release of an ethics report detailing accusations of misconduct.
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell has resigned from his position amid a sexual harassment inquiry, stepping down less than a day after Gov. Mikie Sherrill publicly demanded his ouster. Caldwell, handpicked by Sherrill as her running mate, stated his resignation was to avoid being a distraction to the administration, while denying the report's allegations.
"I'm not resigning because of the report. It's false. I'm resigning because I don't want to be a distraction to the administration," Caldwell told The New York Times. "I'm supportive of the Sherrill administration. I want her to be as successful as possible."
Governor Sherrill had formally called for Caldwell's resignation on Thursday evening, following the release of a 61-page ethics report detailing alleged misconduct. She gave him 24 hours to step down, emphasizing her administration's commitment to high ethical standards.
"I hold everyone in my Administration to the highest ethical standard. We all have a duty to follow our state ethics and harassment policy and our Code of Conduct. Anyone who violates these will be held accountable," Sherrill stated.
The report, led by former New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino, outlines accusations including Caldwell, 66, using his position to score expensive tickets for romantic interests, securing a promotion for his girlfriend, and tasking aides with finding him a "first lady."
One of the more serious allegations suggests that in April, Caldwell made unwanted advances toward a staffer's younger friend at an official event. According to the report, he later expressed frustration, allegedly telling the aide, "you young women are looking for young sperm." Caldwell's attorney, Thomas Calcagni, has denied this specific comment was made.
Caldwell's tenure as lieutenant governor stands in contrast to the praise Sherrill offered when selecting him as her running mate in July 2025. She described him as a "voice for the voiceless" and someone "committed to New Jersey," highlighting his past activism and commitment to public service.
Caldwell, who is divorced, also allegedly pressured a staffer to find him a "first lady" after she declined his requests, according to the report.