Credit: Derek Vasquez/NJ VA
New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell is the subject of an internal probe examining claims of potential ethics infractions and alleged misconduct involving women, the New Jersey Globe first reported last week.
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The administration of Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill retained Christopher Porrino, who held the post of New Jersey attorney general during part of Gov. Chris Christie’s administration, to lead the inquiry. Porrino, along with law partner and former assistant U.S. attorney Shontae Gray, is assisting with the internal investigation, the New Jersey Globe said in its report.
The governor’s office released a statement to 6abc stating Sherrill “takes any reports of inappropriate behavior or misconduct seriously”.
A report published by the business news site BINJE indicated the probe was triggered by an anonymous tip in the spring and has been underway for several months.
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Caldwell, who is a pastor, fills dual roles in state government as lieutenant governor and secretary of state.
Under the state constitution, the lieutenant governor assumes the position of acting governor on a temporary basis whenever the governor travels outside New Jersey or becomes unable to fulfill their duties.
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After the reports, State Senate Republican Leader Anthony Bucco, of Morris County, issued a statement asking for Caldwell to temporarily vacate his post.
“The reported allegations against Lt. Gov. Caldwell are deeply concerning and disappointing,” Bucco stated. “Our elected officials must hold themselves to the highest possible standards of conduct, character, and integrity”.
