New Jersey governor calls on lieutenant governor to resign after investigation finds sexual harassment

Gov. Mikie Sherrill called on Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign Tuesday after an independent investigation substantiated allegations of sexual harassment and found he repeatedly violated state policy, giving him until Wednesday to step down.

The investigation, initiated by the state’s Chief Ethics Officer and conducted by a former state attorney general, found Caldwell engaged in “serious, repeated violations of state policy” and failed to uphold the responsibilities of his office, according to a statement released by the governor’s office.

“This investigation was thorough and impartial,” Sherrill said. “The substantiated finding of sexual harassment is extremely troubling.”

The governor said the violations reflected “a pattern of behavior” that persisted despite multiple warnings and trainings.

Sherrill, a former federal prosecutor, said she holds everyone in her administration to the highest ethical standards and that anyone who violates state ethics and harassment policies will be held accountable.

“I’ve seen firsthand how a hostile culture can undermine everyone’s ability to succeed,” she said. “It’s insidious and ruptures the trust within an organization.”

The governor said Caldwell’s resignation is “necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents.” She did not say what steps she would take if he does not comply with her deadline.

Caldwell’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Sherrill also drew a contrast with the federal government, saying the president “continues to undermine confidence in public service.” She said her administration would not “sweep misconduct under the rug.”

“In my Administration, we are committed to doing what is right, not what is politically expedient,” she said.

The investigation’s findings and the governor’s call for resignation mark a rare public rupture between New Jersey’s top two elected officials. The lieutenant governor’s office did not indicate whether Caldwell plans to fight the findings or remain in office.