NEW YORK (BLOOMBERG) — New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill appointed the acting secretary of state as lieutenant governor, filling a post left vacant since September when Dale Caldwell resigned amid a sexual harassment investigation.
Sherrill on Monday announced that Shirley Emehelu, a former prosecutor who has served as acting secretary of state since late September, would step into the role. It marks the first time women will simultaneously serve as New Jersey’s governor and lieutenant governor, according to Sherrill.
“I promised to bring a different kind of leadership to Trenton — rooted in accountability, relentless dedication to service, and a commitment to putting New Jerseyans first,” Sherrill said in a statement.
Caldwell resigned September 25 after an independent investigation found he had engaged in sexual harassment and repeatedly violated state policies and ethics rules. Because Caldwell also served as secretary of state, Sherrill named Emehelu as acting secretary of state following his departure.
