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New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill called on her handpicked Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign by Friday, after an independent investigation substantiated sexual harassment and two ethics violations.
The investigation found Caldwell told a female staffer that "you young women are looking for young sperm" after she told him her younger friend was not interested in a romantic relationship with him.
Investigators concluded the sexually charged remark constituted sexual harassment and said Caldwell's denial that he made the comment was not credible.
The staffer said she subsequently attempted to distance herself from Caldwell at work and avoid traveling with him when possible.
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"I’m calling for his resignation and giving him until tomorrow to do so," Sherrill said Thursday, calling the substantiated sexual harassment finding "extremely troubling."
The report also substantiated two ethics violations, finding Caldwell brought personal guests to ticketed events without advance ethics clearance or payment and repeatedly attempted to secure a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship.
Investigators found Caldwell continued bringing unpaid guests to events despite repeated training and warnings, including on May 23, one day after he was formally notified of the investigation.
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Four days after receiving notice of the investigation, Caldwell also used his state email account to recommend his romantic partner for a leadership position in another executive branch department, referring to her as "my friend" and forwarding her resume and letter of interest. Investigators said Caldwell did not disclose their romantic relationship while advocating for her promotion.
Caldwell denied wrongdoing in a May response to investigators, calling the allegations false and misleading and saying he believed the facts would exonerate him. He denied hitting on or asking women out while conducting official business.
Fox News Digital reached out to Caldwell for comment on the report and Sherrill's resignation demand.
Sherrill said the violations reflected "a pattern of behavior" that persisted despite warnings and training.
"The Lieutenant Governor’s resignation is necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents," the Democrat said.
Sherrill also took aim at President Donald Trump in announcing her decision, saying the president "continues to undermine confidence in public service at the federal level" and that she would not accept "a culture that sweeps misconduct under the rug" in New Jersey.
The investigation began after the state's chief ethics officer received an anonymous complaint in May alleging inappropriate behavior toward women and ethics violations. Caldwell was formally notified of the investigation May 22.
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