🚨🏛️ NJ LT. GOV. DALE CALDWELL DENIES MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS AS INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell has denied allegations of inappropriate behavior and ethics violations as a state-ordered investigation continues. Governor Mikie Sherrill said her administration will take appropriate action once the inquiry, led by outside attorneys, reaches its conclusion.
📍 TRENTON, NEW JERSEY | SEPTEMBER 10, 2026
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell has denied allegations of inappropriate behavior involving women as an investigation into his conduct continues.
A May 28 letter written by Caldwell and addressed to New Jersey Chief Ethics Officer Christina Fullam reportedly provides an early response to allegations made against him. According to the letter, Caldwell denied asking women out, “hitting on” them, or pursuing romantic relationships while conducting official business as lieutenant governor and secretary of state.
Caldwell reportedly described the allegations as serious and disputed their accuracy, saying he has conducted himself professionally throughout his career in government, higher education, nonprofit leadership, ministry and public service.
🔎 INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY
The allegations are the subject of an investigation requested by Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s administration. Former New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino and attorney Shontae Gray are involved in the inquiry, which has included interviews with complainants and potential witnesses. Caldwell has reportedly cooperated with the investigation.
Reports have also indicated that investigators are examining potential ethics issues, including an allegation involving the purported offer of state employment. Specific details surrounding the allegations have remained limited.
🏛️ GOVERNOR'S RESPONSE
Gov. Sherrill has said that reports of inappropriate behavior or misconduct must be taken seriously and that credible allegations should be fully examined.
Sherrill has also said she would take appropriate action quickly if the evidence warrants it, while her administration has declined to confirm or deny specific personnel matters.
📄 WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
The investigation remains ongoing, with recent reporting indicating that the outside review could be nearing its conclusion. No finding of wrongdoing against Caldwell has been publicly established at this time.
Caldwell currently serves as both lieutenant governor and secretary of state.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: The allegations described in this report remain allegations. Caldwell has denied the claims, and the investigation has not publicly established that he committed misconduct. All individuals are entitled to due process and should be presumed innocent unless and until wrongdoing is established through the appropriate process.
📰 Garden State News Network Informing & Connecting New Jersey.