Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Sep 25
Sherrill Demands Caldwell Resign by Friday Over Sexual Harassment and Ethics Violations
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Sep 25

Sherrill Demands Caldwell Resign by Friday Over Sexual Harassment and Ethics Violations

3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Sep 25

Summary

  • Friday is the deadline Gov. Mikie Sherrill gave Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign after an independent investigation substantiated sexual harassment and ethics violations.
  • The report found Caldwell made a romantic advance toward a female staffer’s friend and comments to the staffer that together constituted sexual harassment.
  • Investigators also cited credible evidence that he brought personal guests to ticketed events without clearance and repeatedly sought a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship.
  • Sherrill said Caldwell’s ethical lapses continued despite multiple warnings and trainings; Caldwell, who previously denied misconduct, did not immediately comment Thursday.
  • The demand escalates a crisis inside the new administration, with Sherrill having appointed a former state attorney general to lead the probe and canceling planned political travel in recent days.

Insights

Will the recent statewide crackdown on professional ethics expose even deeper misconduct hidden within the highest levels of government?
Why did multiple official warnings and ethics trainings fail to stop a top state leader's continued workplace misconduct?