Timberlake backs Sherrill’s handling of Caldwell investigation

New Jersey Globe · David Wildstein · September 9, 2026

State Sen. Britnee Timberlake (D-East Orange) defended Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s decision to conduct an “integrity‑driven investigation” into allegations involving Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell, saying the process must protect both those who come forward and the subject of the inquiry.

Our country has seen far too many situations where men of color are accused, condemned in the court of public opinion, and even prosecuted for crimes they did not commit,” said Timberlake. “At the same time, it is also painfully common for women — especially when speaking about experiences involving men in positions of power — to be dismissed, shut down, shunned, blamed, and denied the basic respect and seriousness their voices deserve.”

Her comments came after Sherrill said that any credible report of inappropriate behavior or misconduct involving members of her administration must be “fully examined and addressed.” Sherrill said complainants must be protected from retaliation while ensuring that subjects of complaints receive a fair and thorough review.

Caldwell, who also serves as secretary of state, is the subject of an internal inquiry into alleged inappropriate behavior involving women and possible ethics violations. Former Attorney General Christopher Porrino and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae Gray are conducting the internal investigation.

Timberlake noted the investigation must account for the different ways men of color and women who accuse powerful men of misconduct have historically been treated.

“As a Black woman, I can state without hesitation that a fair, independent investigation is the only path that honors both truths,” Timberlake said. “It protects those who have historically been judged prematurely, and it ensures anyone who comes forward is treated with urgency, dignity, privacy, and fairness. A process where truth and justice prevail.”

Timberlake also criticized Republican leaders who have attacked Sherrill’s handling of the investigation before any findings have been released.

“It is deeply troubling to watch some Republican leaders twist this matter into a political weapon when the only public fact is that an independent investigation is underway, with no findings released,” she said.

“Their outrage is especially hollow given their long history of ignoring or minimizing well‑documented scandals — including the Epstein files, which involved pedophilia, trafficking, and years of suppressed information that shield powerful men,” Timberlake said. “The secrecy surrounding those records is so egregious that even Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene publicly declared “enough is enough”, demanded transparency before abruptly quitting Congress due to the hypocrisy.”

The Essex County Democrat accused many Republican leaders of saying nothing “despite victims’ testimony, corroborating evidence, and widespread public concern.”

“That silence becomes even more glaring when contrasted with their refusal to confront President Trump’s widely circulated comments about grabbing women’s private parts without consent — statements millions of Americans found disturbing and inappropriate,” Timberlake stated. “This selective outrage, loud when politically convenient and mute when accountability touches their own sphere, undermines any claim to moral seriousness and erodes public trust.”

She said Sherrill’s handling of the investigation was consistent with the responsibilities of public leadership.

“Governor Mikie Sherrill is doing what any good leader should do in these unfortunate circumstances: ensuring an independent, unbiased investigation occurs, while maintaining impartiality and privacy until the process is complete,” Timberlake said.

She praised Sherrill “for seeking out the truth, and doing so in a professional independent manner.”

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