NJ Lt. Gov. Caldwell Resigns After Investigation Confirms Harassment and Ethics Breaches
New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned on Friday, September 25, 2026, following a four-month independent investigation that confirmed sexual harassment and ethics violations. Governor Mikie Sherrill accepted his resignation after he failed to step down voluntarily by her deadline. Caldwell, who also served as Secretary of State, is the first lieutenant governor in New Jersey history to resign. The investigation, led by former Attorney General Christopher Porrino, found credible evidence that Caldwell made a sexually charged remark to a staffer and improperly sought a promotion for a romantic partner. Caldwell’s attorney disputed the findings, but Caldwell agreed to resign to avoid further disruption to the administration. Acting State Comptroller Shirley Emehelu will assume the Secretary of State role ahead of the November midterms.