New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell resigned on September 25, 2026, hours after Governor Sherrill called for him to step down following the release of an independent investigation into his conduct.
The investigation found that Caldwell failed to uphold the responsibilities of his office and demonstrated a pattern of behavior that does not meet the standards of the Administration, according to the Governor. The report documents serious, repeated violations of state policy, including ethical lapses and a substantiated finding of sexual harassment.
"I gave the Lieutenant Governor until today to resign," Sherrill said. "He submitted his resignation to me this afternoon, which I accepted."
Sherrill said the investigation was initiated by the Chief Ethics Officer and conducted by a respected former state Attorney General. She said it was thorough, impartial, and protected privacy.
"Let me be clear: all credible allegations of misconduct must be fully investigated and addressed," she said. "In my Administration, we are committed to doing what is right, not what is politically expedient."
The Governor thanked Caldwell for his service on the campaign and in the first months of the Administration, particularly in supporting the business agenda, and for his commitment to addressing longstanding challenges facing Black communities across the state. She said her administration will continue that work.
Sherrill said she will move swiftly and thoughtfully in choosing a new Lieutenant Governor.
With 39 days until the midterm elections, Sherrill named Acting Comptroller Shirley Emehelu, a veteran of the U.S. Department of Justice and the New Jersey Attorney General's Office, to serve as Acting Secretary of State.
"She has the judgment to run our elections - and the strength to stand up to Trump's attacks on voting," Sherrill said, adding she has full faith that Emehelu and the Department of State will ensure all eligible New Jerseyans can make their voices heard in November.
Sherrill said her administration is requiring a culture change in Trenton, and that New Jerseyans deserve fairness and accountability.