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Bill Spadea is an American radio and television host and political commentator. He hosts programs for New Jersey 101.5 and Newsmax and previously hosted Chasing News. He ran in the 2025 Republican primary for governor of New Jersey.
Role at the time: Radio host reassessing his earlier opinion in a New Jersey 101.5 column
Challenged the characterization
Statement summary
Spadea revisits his earlier defense and says Caldwell's resignation makes him question whether the investigative conclusions were more accurate than Caldwell admits. He still says an accusation does not establish guilt.
“That's odd and makes me question whether the conclusions of the investigation were more accurate than the former lieutenant governor is saying.”
Open source (opens in a new tab)Spadea questions Caldwell after initially defending himParagraphs beginning Instead, he abruptly resigned through the discussion of accusations and guilt
Why we used this label
The reference is Caldwell's account of the investigation. Spadea challenges that account's credibility without concluding that every allegation has been proved.
Role at the time: Radio host writing an opinion column for New Jersey 101.5
Defended or excused
Statement summary
Spadea argues that the allegations described in the investigation do not justify forcing Caldwell from office. He calls for due process and says Caldwell should remain.
“Caldwell is right to fight and stay in office.”
Open source (opens in a new tab)Spadea argues Caldwell should remain in officeFinal assessment and preceding discussion of all three investigative findings
Why we used this label
The reference is the conduct alleged in the investigation and the resulting resignation demand. Spadea expressly defends Caldwell's continued service.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill called on Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell to resign after an outside law firm's report substantiated a workplace-policy violation and two ethics violations. Caldwell resigned on September 25, 2026, the next day. He and his lawyer dispute the report's findings.
