Key facts
- New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell resigned Friday after a report found he violated state ethics and discrimination rules.
- The investigation detailed allegations of sexual harassment, advocating for a romantic partner's promotion, and bringing unpaid guests to ticketed events.
- Governor Mikie Sherrill called for Caldwell's resignation following the report's findings.
- Caldwell's attorney stated they continue to challenge the report and are exploring legal remedies.
- Shirley Emehelu will be appointed acting lieutenant governor.
New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned on Friday after an independent investigation concluded he engaged in sexual harassment and other ethical violations. Governor Mikie Sherrill had called for his resignation on Thursday following the release of the report.
The investigation, released on Wednesday, found that Caldwell made sexually offensive remarks to female staff members, including telling one staffer, after his advances on a friend of the staffer's were rebuffed, that "you young women are looking for young sperm." The report stated Caldwell denied making the comment, but investigators "did not find his denial credible."
Investigators also found that Caldwell tried on multiple occasions to secure a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship. He was also accused of bringing personal guests to ticketed events without paying for their entry.
Caldwell's attorney, Thomas Calcagni, said in an emailed statement that "we continue to forcefully challenge the report" and that they were exploring "legal remedies" to "ensure a true, balanced, and unbiased record."
Governor Sherrill named Shirley Emehelu, the state's acting comptroller, to be the new acting lieutenant governor and said she would decide within 45 days on a permanent replacement.