Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill has officially appointed Lieutenant Governor-elect Dale Caldwell as New Jersey’s Secretary of State, marking a significant step in the formation of her administration ahead of her inauguration next month. This announcement was made during a press event in New Brunswick, emphasizing Caldwell’s crucial role in the state’s governance.
Caldwell, a longtime educator and community leader, currently serves as the president of Centenary College and has an extensive background in public service, including a tenure on the New Brunswick school board and as a former deputy commissioner at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Sherrill, a Democrat and former congresswoman, emerged victorious against Republican Jack Ciatarelli in the recent election, winning by a notable margin of approximately 14 percentage points against the term-limited Governor Phil Murphy.
In his capacity as Secretary of State, Caldwell will oversee various areas essential to New Jersey, including elections, art, business, history, and tourism. During the announcement, Sherrill praised Caldwell, stating, “Dale has spent his entire career bringing people together and delivering results for his community.” His experience and dedication to empowering New Jerseyans were highlighted as key qualities that will help him lead the state’s Department of State effectively.
Caldwell expressed enthusiasm for his new role, noting, “The Department of State plays a critical role in strengthening our democracy, supporting our creative economy, and ensuring New Jersey remains a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.” He anticipates collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance civic engagement and bolster the state’s cultural institutions, while also upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Caldwell will be the fourth individual to serve as New Jersey’s lieutenant governor and the first male in the role, with a precedent set by those predecessors who primarily held the Secretary of State position, with the notable exception of the late Sheila Oliver, who managed the Department of Community Affairs.
As Sherrill prepares to take office on January 20, she has also established a transition team of over 400 members to assist in shaping her governance strategy, with expectations of announcing additional Cabinet appointments in the coming weeks. This careful orchestration of her administration signifies Sherrill’s commitment to effectively lead New Jersey into a new chapter, fostering civic engagement and supporting the diverse needs of its residents.