New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned Friday amid a growing sexual harassment scandal that prompted Governor Mikie Sherrill to publicly demand his departure. Caldwell’s resignation came one day after Sherrill called on him to step down following an investigation that substantiated multiple claims of sexual harassment and significant violations of state policies and ethical standards.
The investigation, led by former New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino, produced a detailed 61-page ethics report outlining numerous instances of Caldwell’s alleged misconduct. The report highlighted inappropriate sexual comments directed at an aide, misuse of his official position to facilitate a state job promotion for his girlfriend, and the unauthorized acquisition of costly tickets to various public events for himself and guests.
Among the allegations, Caldwell is accused of bringing guests to seven ticketed events—including the State Opera of New Jersey and a Rowan University scholarship luncheon—without paying. Ticket values ranged from $65 to $300. Additionally, the report describes a particularly disturbing incident in April, when Caldwell allegedly made unwanted advances toward a staffer’s significantly younger friend at an official event. Following the rejection of his advances, he reportedly reacted with a verbal outburst in his state vehicle, telling the aide, “you young women are looking for young sperm.” Caldwell’s attorney has denied that statement was made.
Governor Sherrill, who selected Caldwell as her running mate in July 2025 and had praised him as a “voice for the voiceless” and a committed public servant, issued a firm statement demanding Caldwell’s resignation. She emphasized that her administration holds all officials to strict ethical standards and that violations of harassment policies and codes of conduct would not be tolerated.
In response to the calls for his resignation, Caldwell denied the misconduct allegations and rejected the notion that his resignation was due to the report. Speaking in a defiant interview, he stated that he was stepping down not because of the findings but to avoid being a distraction to the administration. Caldwell also claimed that the investigation was motivated by racial bias, asserting that false accusations against people of color are increasingly common in the current political climate.
The scandal marks a rapid fall from grace for Caldwell, a former president of Centenary University who had been viewed as a rising figure in New Jersey politics. His departure leaves Governor Sherrill’s administration grappling with the fallout just over a year after they won office.