New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Resigns After Harassment Probe
Dale Caldwell resigned as lieutenant governor of New Jersey. He resigned Friday after a harassment investigation.
An independent investigation found he sexually harassed a woman. The investigation also found two ethics violations.
Caldwell sought a promotion for his romantic partner. He also brought guests to ticketed events without paying.
Governor Mikie Sherrill had given Caldwell until Friday to resign. She could not fire him herself.
Otherwise he could have faced impeachment. Caldwell said he resigned only to avoid distracting Sherrill.
On camera he called the ethics probe "specious" and "poorly done." His lawyer disputed the findings. The lawyer said he would explore legal options. Caldwell also served as New Jersey's secretary of state.
Klear Note — Impeachment is a formal process lawmakers can use to remove officials.
Key Terms 4
- lieutenant governor A state official who serves under the governor.
- secretary of state A state official who oversees elections and records.
- specious Something that seems true but is actually false.
- impeachment A formal process to remove an official from office.