Key Takeaways
- Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill has appointed her Lieutenant Governor, Dale Caldwell, to also serve as New Jersey’s Secretary of State.
- Caldwell’s key responsibilities will include overseeing the election process, managing the state’s Business Action Center, and leading tourism initiatives.
- The appointment emphasizes a focus on protecting voting rights and preparing for major tourism events in 2026, including the World Cup final.
- This dual-role appointment follows a precedent set by previous Lieutenant Governors, including Kim Guadagno and the current LG, Tahesha Way.
NEW BRUNSWICK – Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill announced Monday that her running mate, Lieutenant Governor-elect Dale Caldwell, will also serve as New Jersey’s Secretary of State in her upcoming administration. The announcement was made at Delta’s Restaurant in New Brunswick, highlighting the key priorities for the office.
A Focus on Election Integrity
One of the primary duties of the Secretary of State is overseeing New Jersey’s elections, a responsibility Sherrill emphasized during the announcement. She noted that the ability for all residents to vote safely has been challenged by intimidating tactics, making the integrity of the process a top priority.
Caldwell brings a rich family history to the role. His father, Rev. Dr. Gilbert Haven Caldwell, was a civil rights leader who marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr. for voting rights. This legacy, Sherrill suggested, will serve him well as he takes on the task of safeguarding the state’s electoral system.
Boosting Business and Cutting Red Tape
Beyond elections, Caldwell will be tasked with leading the state’s economic and cultural initiatives. He will oversee the New Jersey Business Action Center, which works to support and promote local businesses.
Governor-elect Sherrill stated a clear goal for the center under Caldwell’s leadership: to cut “red tape” and increase transparency in the permitting and regulatory processes. The administration aims to create a more streamlined and business-friendly environment to foster economic growth across the Garden State.
Preparing for a Landmark Year in Tourism
The year 2026 is poised to be a monumental one for New Jersey, and Caldwell will be at the forefront of the state’s tourism efforts. New Jersey is set to host several 2026 World Cup matches, including the highly anticipated final. Additionally, the year marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, with significant historical celebrations planned.
Caldwell’s office will be responsible for managing these large-scale events, which are expected to draw thousands of visitors from around the globe. “My goal is simple,” Caldwell said. “To make sure visiting fans have a safe and memorable experience in the Garden State.”
While the Secretary of State is not always a high-profile position, Caldwell signaled his ambition for the role. “You are going to see some really interesting things happening in the office of the secretary of state,” he promised.
Image Referance: https://www.insidernj.com/dale-caldwell-to-serve-as-secretary-of-state-in-sherrill-administration/
