Former NJ Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell Condemns Rush to Judgment After Resignation Amid Questionable Allegations
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After stepping down due to a controversial sexual-harassment investigation, Dale Caldwell delivered a sermon warning of the dangers of false accusations and the erosion of due process in today's climate.
Former New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell took to the pulpit at Covenant United Methodist Church in Plainfield on Sunday, just two days after his resignation, which followed an independent investigation into a sexual-harassment claim. In his sermon, “When Lies Become Weapons,” Caldwell drew on biblical stories of Joseph and King Ahab to highlight the devastating consequences of false accusations, a problem increasingly prevalent in a society quick to judge.
“The Bible is filled with people who were falsely accused,” Caldwell reminded his congregation, underscoring the timelessness of this issue.
He openly questioned the reliability of modern legal and investigative procedures, warning that these processes can be manipulated for personal or political gain. “Laws are necessary… but when people use these things for revenge, jealousy, politics or personal advantage, justice becomes injustice,” Caldwell said, reflecting the concerns of many Americans about the weaponization of accusations. He also criticized the role of social media in fueling hysteria and misinformation, stating, “speed does not determine truth. Popularity does not determine truth. God knows the truth,” a clear rebuke of the mob mentality that often dominates public discourse.
Caldwell urged his congregation to pause and reflect before reacting to accusations, warning against retaliatory falsehoods and calling for people to “fight injustice with justice” and “fight hatred with love.” He stressed that while false accusations are a real threat, legitimate investigations must still proceed, adding, “we must hold people accountable when evidence establishes wrongdoing.”
Caldwell resigned on Friday after Governor Mikie Sherrill released the investigation’s findings, which cited alleged violations of state policy, including a sexual-harassment incident. In a subsequent interview, Caldwell said he stepped down to avoid becoming a distraction to the Sherrill administration, describing Governor Sherrill as a “wonderful person” who means well. After the service, he told the New Jersey Globe he remains supportive of the administration and looks forward to the next chapter in his life, standing firm in his belief in due process and fairness.