New Jersey Governor Sherrill calls on lieutenant governor to resign — The Hill

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill called on Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell to resign by Friday after the release of an ethics report stating that he violated state rules on workplace discrimination. As The Hill reports, the investigation was conducted by a law firm hired by the governor’s office.

Investigation findings

According to the investigators’ findings, Caldwell twice tried to facilitate the appointment of his girlfriend to a position in state government. The report also states that he made a sexually charged remark in a conversation with an employee and did not heed warnings to change his behavior.

In one episode described in the document, Caldwell, according to investigators, expressed romantic interest in a friend of one of his employees. After being rejected, he allegedly made a sexualized remark about young women. The lieutenant governor denied making the comment, but investigators said they did not find his denial credible.

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The governor’s position and the defense

Sherrill said the investigation uncovered serious and repeated violations of state policy, as well as Caldwell’s failure to fulfill the duties of his office. According to her, the lieutenant governor’s resignation is necessary and in the interests of New Jersey residents.

Investigators also concluded that while Caldwell’s conduct was under review, he recommended his romantic partner for a senior position. The woman ultimately received neither a promotion nor another benefit after state officials raised questions about their relationship.

In a statement provided to The New York Times, Caldwell’s lawyer, Thomas Calcagni, called the investigation one-sided and said it did not provide due process. New Jersey Senator Cory Booker supported Sherrill’s position and also called on the lieutenant governor to leave office.