New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill demanded Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell resign after an investigation found he sexually harassed a staffer, violated ethics rules, and used his office to benefit a romantic partner. Caldwell’s lawyer disputed the findings, calling the process unfair.
New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill on Thursday ordered Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign, citing an independent investigation that found he sexually harassed a female staffer, made inappropriate advances, and violated state ethics rules. The 61-page report, conducted by law firm Lowenstein Sandler, detailed multiple violations, including Caldwell’s alleged comment that you young women are looking for young sperm
and his efforts to secure a promotion for a romantic partner.
Investigation Unveils Repeated Ethics Violations
The probe, commissioned by Sherrill’s office in May 2026, concluded that Caldwell engaged in serious, repeated violations of state policy.
The report also accused Caldwell of using his office to push for a promotion for a state employee he was dating, despite being warned about workplace conduct.
Caldwell’s lawyer, Thomas Calcagni, argued the investigation was “one-sided” and lacked due process. He claimed Caldwell was not given a meaningful opportunity to address each of these anonymous allegations
and denied the sexual harassment claims. The Lieutenant Governor was not provided a meaningful opportunity to address each of these anonymous allegations,
Calcagni said in a statement cited by NBC News.
Ethics Violations Included Unpaid Event Guests
The investigation also found Caldwell violated ethics rules by attending seven ticketed events with personal guests without paying for their admission. The report stated that where a sponsor waives admission to an event for an official’s family member, friend, or date, the value of that admission is an impermissible benefit to the official.
Caldwell’s office has not publicly addressed the specific allegations beyond his attorney’s statements. However, sources close to the administration indicated he plans to stay in office, despite Sherrill’s demand for resignation by Friday noted by NJ.com.
Political Fallout and Calls for Impeachment
Sherrill, a Democrat, framed the resignation as necessary in the best interest of New Jersey residents,
stating that Caldwell’s ethical lapses persisted despite multiple warnings and trainings.
The investigation, sparked by an anonymous complaint, has intensified scrutiny of state leadership as the midterm elections approach.