Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., said Tuesday that credible complaints of inappropriate behavior “must be fully examined and addressed” following reports that her administration is conducting an internal investigation into alleged misconduct by Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell.
In her statement, which did not mention Caldwell by name, Sherrill said she demands “that everyone in my administration hold themselves to the highest standards and put their obligations to public service first” and that she will “take appropriate action quickly” if the evidence warrants it.
A spokesperson for Sherrill confirmed to MS NOW that the governor’s statement was issued in response to reports of the probe into Caldwell’s alleged misconduct. The spokesperson declined to answer additional questions.
The New Jersey Globe first reported news of the investigation into Caldwell on Friday. The probe has focused on “alleged in appropriation behavior with women and possible ethics violations that include the purported offer of state jobs,” according to the outlet, citing anonymous sources “outside the governor’s office.” Those sources also stated that former state Attorney General Christopher Porrino has been leading the inquiry.
Caldwell and Porrino did not immediately respond to MS NOW’s inquiries on Tuesday.
Caldwell, who also serves as secretary of state, was elected alongside Sherrill last November. He also serves as a Methodist pastor and most recently served as president of Centenary University in Hackettstown, New Jersey.
State Republican leadership has called for Caldwell’s resignation.
Jesse Rodriguez contributed to this report.
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