On September 25, 2026, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced that Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell should resign after a state ethics board investigation alleged he made sexual remarks toward a staffer and repeatedly tried to secure a promotion for his girlfriend.
The ethics board’s report describes the conduct as both harassment and nepotism, stating that Caldwell used his position to influence the career advancement of his girlfriend within state government while also directing inappropriate comments at a subordinate employee.
Governor Sherrill’s request for Caldwell to step down followed the public release of the board’s findings. She said the allegations damage public confidence in the administration and that resignation would be appropriate while the matter is further examined.
Caldwell has not issued a public response to the governor’s call for his resignation at the time of this report. The investigation was launched after complaints were filed by the staff member involved and by officials concerned about the perceived favoritism toward Caldwell’s girlfriend.
The case adds to ongoing scrutiny of New Jersey’s executive branch, where the independent ethics board is tasked with reviewing alleged misconduct by elected officials and recommending corrective measures.
Should Caldwell resign, state law provides that the governor will appoint a replacement. The ethics board continues to monitor the situation and may issue additional recommendations based on any further findings.