New Jersey lieutenant governor resigns after 'young sperm' harassment inquiry finds ethics breaches

From the Newshound archive · first published 25 September 2026 · last updated 26 September 2026.

Dale Caldwell has resigned as New Jersey's lieutenant governor after a law firm investigation found he made repeated, serious violations of state policy and ethics codes. Governor Mikie Sherrill had demanded his departure by Friday after the report concluded he breached anti-discrimination rules and ethics standards. Caldwell's attorney called the inquiry one-sided and said his client was denied a meaningful opportunity to challenge the anonymous allegations.

The report found Caldwell told a staffer 'you young women are looking for young sperm' after being rejected when he made an advance toward the staffer's friend.

Caldwell was also found to have sought a promotion for a state employee he was dating and arranged complimentary entry for personal guests to ticketed official events.

Sherrill said Caldwell's 'ethical lapses' continued despite warnings and training, and that his resignation was 'in the best interest of New Jersey residents.'