SOUTH JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill broke her silence on Tuesday on the investigation into Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell, who faces allegations of inappropriate behavior.
There are no details available about the investigation, which reportedly began several weeks or even months ago. Caldwell served last week as acting governor while Sherrill was out of state campaigning for Democrats elsewhere.
In a statement that didn't mention Caldwell by name, Sherrill addressed the allegations, saying she held herself and those in her administration to the highest of standards and that she would take appropriate actions quickly when the evidence warrants it.
“I take my responsibility to treat any reports of inappropriate behavior or misconduct extremely seriously, and any credible report must be fully examined and addressed,” she said.
She also said the subject under investigation has the right to a fair and thorough review.
Republicans in New Jersey said it was concerning that the Sherrill administration hasn’t answered any questions about this matter. They declared the public deserves to know what’s going on.
Read the full statement below.
“Public service is an honor. And I have spent a lifetime of service in the Navy, as a prosecutor, in Congress, and now as Governor. I know that jobs of public trust impact the lives of everyday people and I deeply respect the oaths and responsibilities of these positions.
“Because of this respect, I demand that everyone in my administration hold themselves to the highest standards and put their obligations to public service first.
“I take my responsibility to treat any reports of inappropriate behavior or misconduct extremely seriously, and any credible report must be fully examined and addressed. If the evidence warrants, I will take appropriate action quickly.
“At the same time, I have a vital responsibility to the safety and privacy of every person. Anyone must know that they can come forward with a complaint and they will be safe from retaliation. The subject of a complaint must also know and be confident that their rights will be protected as well and they will receive a fair and thorough review.
“Let me be clear, I do not back down from tough fights or tough conversations, and I will always put the interests of New Jerseyans first.”
