NJBIZ

It doesn’t get much more Jersey than Jon Bon Jovi on a Jersey Lottery ticket. I joined Jon at JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank to launch the new Jersey Legend Scratch-Offs, celebrating his decades of music and his commitment to the state he calls home. That commitment is on full display at Soul Kitchen, which is celebrating 15 years of bringing people together and has served about a quarter of a million meals along the way. A true Jersey legend – on and off the stage.

A quick update on this weekend’s Nor’easter: We’re not out of the woods yet. We’re currently in high tide, and we’ll experience another one tonight that could bring more flooding. Please stay vigilant, monitor conditions, and follow local guidance. Never drive through flooded roadways, report any power outages, and check on neighbors and family members who may need extra help. We’ll continue monitoring the storm and keeping you updated. Please stay safe.

Today, I’m announcing the conclusion and findings of an independent investigation into allegations regarding Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell. The investigation found that the Lieutenant Governor engaged in serious, repeated violations of state policy and failed to uphold the responsibilities of his office. I’m calling for his resignation and giving him until tomorrow to do so. I hold everyone in my Administration to the highest ethical standard. We all have a duty to follow our state ethics and harassment policy and our Code of Conduct. Anyone who violates these will be held accountable. These violations substantiated in the investigation reflect a pattern of behavior that does not meet the standards of this Administration. The ethical lapses persisted despite multiple warnings and trainings. The substantiated finding of sexual harassment is extremely troubling. I’ve seen firsthand how a hostile culture can undermine everyone’s ability to succeed. It’s insidious and ruptures the trust within an organization. Leaders have an obligation to make sure everyone in an organization is bought into the mission and able to succeed. I take that responsibility incredibly seriously. My goal as Governor is to empower our hardworking public servants, so they can remain focused on serving our state. As a former federal prosecutor, I’m committed to ensuring everyone is treated fairly. This investigation was thorough and impartial. It was initiated by the Chief Ethics Officer and conducted by a respected former state Attorney General. The investigation fully examined the evidence, followed the facts, and protected everyone’s privacy. In my Administration, we are committed to doing what is right, not what is politically expedient. The Lieutenant Governor’s resignation is necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents. The President continues to undermine confidence in public service at the federal level. In New Jersey, I will not accept a culture that sweeps misconduct under the rug. We have to be better than that — people expect and deserve better. I have dedicated my life to service. I know that jobs of public trust impact the lives of everyday people, and I deeply respect the oaths and responsibilities of these positions. I will always put the interests of the people of New Jersey first.

I loved Dolly Parton. I loved Islands In the Stream, Two Doors Down and, of course, 9 to 5. I also loved that we had the same birthday, that she mentored and inspired young artists like Miley Cyrus, had grace, was empathetic, and put millions of books into the hands of children through her commitment to literacy. New Jersey will always love you, Dolly.