Governor Sherrill Addresses Investigation of Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell

An internal investigation has been launched into New Jersey Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Dale Caldwell, 66, over allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women and possible ethics violations, including the purported offer of state jobs. Former state Attorney General Christopher Porrino is leading the probe, interviewing complainants and potential witnesses. Caldwell is reported to be cooperating. No findings have been released, and the timeline remains unspecified.

The Record (New Jersey)

Caldwell, a former president of Centenary University, assumed that role on July 1, 2023. He and Governor Mikie Sherrill were elected in the 2025 gubernatorial election, with Caldwell also serving as Secretary of State, placing him in charge of day-to-day operations when the governor is out of state.

The Record (New Jersey)

• 2025 gubernatorial election – Sherrill and Caldwell win statewide offices.

The Record (New Jersey)

• Friday (reported by the New Jersey Globe) – the Globe first reports that an internal investigation into Caldwell has begun.

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill says complaints must be ‘fully examined’ after reports of probe into lieutenant

• Tuesday – Governor Sherrill issues a public statement responding to the reports.

Philadelphia Inquirer

Governor Sherrill emphasized that “public service is an honor” and reiterated her commitment to the responsibilities of elected office. She added that, if the evidence warrants, “appropriate action” will be taken quickly. The governor’s office also noted that individuals who come forward will be protected from retaliation and will receive a “fair and thorough review.”

The Record (New Jersey)

Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco urged Caldwell to step aside temporarily, describing the allegations as “deeply concerning and disappointing” and questioning why the information was not disclosed earlier. Bucco expressed concern about Caldwell serving as acting governor while under investigation.

Gov. Sherrill addresses misconduct reports as Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell remains under investigation

The probe touches on two critical state functions: the lieutenant governor’s role as acting governor and the secretary of state’s oversight of elections. Critics argue that the combination of these duties with an ongoing misconduct investigation could distract from governance and raise questions about the integrity of electoral administration. The governor’s handling of the probe is being watched as a test of her promised accountability and transparency.

The Record (New Jersey)

Public details about the specific allegations remain limited. Sources cite “anonymous” reports of inappropriate behavior and alleged offers of state jobs, but no concrete evidence or victim statements have been released. The length of the investigation and the criteria for any potential disciplinary action have not been disclosed.

Gov. Sherrill addresses misconduct reports as Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell remains under investigation

• “I take my responsibility to treat any reports of inappropriate behavior or misconduct extremely seriously, and any credible report must be fully examined and addressed. If the evidence warrants, I will take appropriate action quickly,” — Governor Mikie Sherrill

WHYY - NPR - Philadelphia

• “Public service is an honor. And I have spent a lifetime of service in the Navy, as a prosecutor, in Congress, and now as Governor. I know that jobs of public trust impact the lives of everyday people and I deeply respect the oaths and responsibilities of these positions,” — Governor Mikie Sherrill

Philadelphia Inquirer

• “The Governor and Lieutenant Governor should not be considered ‘personnel’ — they are the highest level elected officials in the state and must be held to the highest standard of accountability and transparency,” — Christine Giordano Hanlon, NJ GOP chair

Philadelphia Inquirer