Gov.-Elect Mikie Sherrill Begins Building Her Cabinet, Names Dale Caldwell as N.J. Secretary of State
Mikie Sherrill announced that Lieutenant Gov.-elect Dale Caldwell will be future Jersey’s next secretary of state, the first major step toward shaping her future administration. Her first Cabinet appointment comes before her inauguration as the state’s 57th governor next month.
Democrat and former Congressman Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli in a resounding victory weeks earlier. Before inauguration, her early moves reveal the leadership team she wants at the center of her administration.
Caldwell, Centenary College president, ran with Sherrill and will become lieutenant governor and secretary of state on January 20. Caldwell will lead the Department of State as New Jersey’s lieutenant governor. The office oversees statewide elections, arts and culture, tourism, business services, and historical preservation in New Jersey.
Sherrill lauded Caldwell for his community, togetherness, and public service leadership. His long career in education, public administration, and civic participation shows a “deep commitment to empowering every New Jerseyan,” she said. He should improve state civic institutions and foster trust in government, Sherrill added.
Caldwell has over two decades of public service in New Brunswick, including 25 years on the school board. His other jobs include deputy commissioner of the state Department of Community Affairs and Methodist pastor in Plainfield. He led early planning for the next government as Sherrill’s transition team chair.
Additionally, his appointment is historic. Caldwell will be New Jersey’s fourth lieutenant governor and first male. Many lieutenant governors have also led the Department of State. The late Sheila Oliver headed the Department of Community Affairs.
Caldwell said he wants to boost democratic engagement and support the state’s creative and business communities in his new job. He stressed electoral integrity, civic involvement, and New Jersey’s cultural and tourism sectors, which fuel the economy.
In the coming weeks, Sherrill, who resigned from the House of Representatives to become governor, is anticipated to announce further Cabinet appointments. To shape her first term, her transition team has around 400 members from several policy sectors.
Sherrill’s first significant choice underscores her administration’s commitment on collaboration, civic leadership, and renewed investment in organizations that directly impact New Jerseyans’ lives. As the new administration forms before the January inauguration, further appointments are expected.
Sources
Official statements from incoming New Jersey administration
Public information about state offices and responsibilities
