From the Guardian · · 50s
New Jersey lieutenant governor resigns after sexual harassment accusation
New Jersey lieutenant governor resigns after sexual harassment report
In brief
New Jersey lieutenant governor resigns after sexual harassment report Caldwell resigned following ethics violations and sexual harassment claims Originally reported by the Guardian.
Resignation announcement
New Jersey lieutenant governor Dale Caldwell resigned after a report found credible evidence of sexual harassment and ethics violations.
“Dr Caldwell’s resignation, submitted to put an end to the targeted campaign to discredit his character, does not in any way diminish our outrage concerning the investigative process and its specious findings”
Investigation findings
Investigators determined Caldwell made romantic advances toward a female staffer’s friend and tried to secure her girlfriend’s promotion.
“Caldwell allegedly told the staffer that women like them were ambitious and successful and needed a man in a position to help them, but you young women are looking for young sperm”
Ethics violations
Caldwell brought personal guests to ticketed events without reimbursement and did not disclose his relationship with a state employee.
“Caldwell acknowledged that he did not disclose the nature of his relationship with the state employee until he was confronted”
Governor's response
Governor Mikie Sherrill appointed Shirley Emehelu as acting secretary of state to oversee elections before midterms.
“We can no longer tolerate the culture of silence, sweeping things under the rug or kicking cans down the road”
Election context
Sherrill named Emehelu to ensure fair voting access as midterm elections approach in 39 days.
“Shirley is a veteran of the US Department of Justice and the New Jersey attorney general’s office”
The one thing
Caldwell resigned following ethics violations and sexual harassment claims
