Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill announced Dec. 1 that Lieutenant Governor-elect Dr. Dale G. Caldwell will serve as New Jersey’s next secretary of state. The announcement was made at Delta’s Restaurant in New Brunswick, the city where Caldwell served on the board of education for 26 years.
Caldwell will become the state’s fourth lieutenant governor and the third to serve as secretary of state. In this capacity, he will oversee the state’s elections, arts and cultural initiatives, small business services, and efforts to promote tourism and civic participation.
Caldwell will be responsible for safeguarding election processes, supporting arts and history organizations, running the state’s Business Action Center, promoting the state’s tourism economy, and ensuring that the foundations of New Jersey’s civic life remain strong.
He was also named chair of the Gubernatorial Transition.
“I was lucky to have Dale Caldwell as my running mate this year, and now I am thrilled he has agreed to serve as our next Secretary of State,” said Gov.-elect Sherrill. “Dale has spent his entire career bringing people together and delivering results for his community. His experience, integrity, and deep commitment to empowering every New Jerseyan make him the ideal leader to steward our democratic institutions and promote the cultural and civic vitality of our state.”
Caldwell is recognized for his work in community leadership, urban education, and economic development. He has previously served as Executive Director of the Rutgers University Institute for Leadership and has held key roles across state government, nonprofit organizations, and higher education. Caldwell also brings extensive experience in promoting small business growth and expanding voter education and civic participation initiatives.
“I am honored to serve as New Jersey’s next Secretary of State and grateful to Governor-elect Sherrill for her trust,” said Caldwell. “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. I look forward to working with partners across the state to expand civic engagement, support our small business community, bolster our cultural institutions, and uphold the integrity of our elections.”
Sherrill won the 2025 gubernatorial race by more than 14 points over Jack Ciattarelli in November.
