New Jersey Lt. Gov.
Dale Caldwell resigned on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, after an independent investigation concluded he committed sexual harassment and violated state workplace ethics policies.
Gov.
Mikie Sherrill announced the resignation and said she accepted it after demanding Caldwell step down the previous day.
A 61-page report by a state-hired law firm found credible evidence that Caldwell made inappropriate sexual comments to a female staffer, improperly sought a promotion for a romantic partner, and brought unpaid guests to ticketed events.
Caldwell Denies Findings, Challenges Process
Caldwell denied the allegations and defended his decision to step down.
"My decision to resign should not be interpreted as an acceptance of the report's findings," Caldwell said.
His legal counsel also challenged the validity and fairness of the investigative process.
"This unnecessarily protracted and one-sided process lacked the requisite due process that should be afforded every citizen of this state," said Thomas Calcagni, attorney for Caldwell.
Sherrill pushed back against criticisms of the investigation during a press conference announcing the resignation.
"I think it's very thorough. It lays out exactly what the investigation looked into," Sherrill said.
The governor noted that Caldwell's input was documented within the investigative materials.
"So, obviously he was fully involved in this as well," Sherrill said.
Addressing her decision to permit Caldwell to serve as acting governor while the inquiry was underway, Sherrill emphasized procedural fairness.
"As a former federal prosecutor, it is important to me that everyone have a fair hearing," Sherrill said.
She stated that swift action was taken as soon as the final conclusions were established.
"Once I saw those complaints, once I saw the findings of that investigation, I acted quickly and asked for the resignation of the lieutenant governor," Sherrill said.
Sherrill framed the administrative move as part of a broader institutional standard.
"There has been a culture in Trenton, probably since the birth of our nation, to sweep this under the rug," Sherrill said.
She reiterated her intention to establish accountability within state leadership.
"That is not the kind of government I'm running. When I say there is a culture change taking place, I mean it.
This is part of it," Sherrill said.
Legislative leaders expressed support for the governor's decision following the announcement.
"Following an independent investigation, Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell was right to resign from office today," said Craig Coughlin, speaker of the New Jersey State Assembly.
Coughlin emphasized maintaining continuity in state operations.
"We must ensure the work of governing is uninterrupted and that serving the people of New Jersey remains a top priority," Coughlin said.
Acting Comptroller Shirley Emehelu will temporarily assume the role of secretary of state, which Caldwell previously held, to oversee the upcoming midterm elections.
"Shirley is a veteran of the U. S.
Department of Justice and the New Jersey Attorney General's Office," Sherrill said.
Sherrill expressed confidence in Emehelu's ability to handle administration duties.
"She has the judgment to run these elections and the strength to stand up to Trump's attacks on voting," Sherrill said.
State Senate President Nicholas Scutari will serve as acting governor during any gubernatorial absences until a permanent replacement is appointed within the 45-day statutory window.
