Story perspectives

Caldwell Resigns After Sherrill Deadline, Emehelu Named Acting Secretary

By Drooid · Sep 28, 2026, 4:20 PM UTC · How we work

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Resignation to End Harassment

New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned on Friday, September 25, 2026, after Governor Mikie Sherrill gave him a deadline to leave.
Governor Sherrill said the resignation was needed to end Trenton’s entrenched culture of sexual harassment and ethics violations.
Christopher Porrino’s investigation found Caldwell made sexual advances toward women and used sexually charged language.
Sherrill named Comptroller Shirley Emehelu acting secretary of state to oversee the November election.

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Legal Challenge Planned

New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned on September 25, 2026, after Governor Mikie Sherrill set a deadline.
He said the resignation avoided distracting the administration and called the investigation report inaccurate and biased.
Governor Mikie Sherrill named Comptroller Shirley Emehelu acting secretary of state.
Attorney Thomas Calcagni said his team will seek to challenge the report legally.
Caldwell's daughter Ashley posted on X that media rushed to judgment.

History

Historical Context

In early 2021, Attorney General Letitia James launched an independent probe into Governor Andrew Cuomo’s conduct. The August 3, 2021 report found he had sexually harassed 11 women, prompting bipartisan calls for removal and leading Cuomo to announce his resignation effective August 24, 2021, with Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul succeeding him. The episode reflected a growing demand for accountability in public office.

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Resignation to End Harassment

New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned on Friday, September 25, 2026, after Governor Mikie Sherrill gave him a deadline to leave.
Governor Sherrill said the resignation was needed to end Trenton’s entrenched culture of sexual harassment and ethics violations.
Christopher Porrino’s investigation found Caldwell made sexual advances toward women and used sexually charged language.
Sherrill named Comptroller Shirley Emehelu acting secretary of state to oversee the November election.

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