WOODBRIDGE - The initial communique from Mikie Sherrill's office said she would tour a local pizza shop Wednesday evening, but not talk to the press.  In government speak, she would not have an "availability."

But by late morning, there was a new message - the governor would have an availability with reporters after all.

Energized by that news and the possibility of Sherrill candidly speaking about a probe into alleged inappropriate behavior by Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell, more than a dozen reporters showed up, crowding outside Pino's Pizza in this Middlesex County town.

The governor toured the pizzeria, spoke to the owner and admired some of the photos on the wall. Then she spoke to the cluster of reporters.

Her message was very similar to a statement she released on Tuesday. Those expecting any sort of update on the Caldwell investigation were disappointed.

Sherrill said she would neither confirm nor deny an investigation, which was first reported last Friday by the NJ Globe.

"Any complaints are taken very seriously," she said, adding that it is also important to protect the rights of the accused and to treat people fairly.

She did not directly answer a question about when she first became aware of possible problems with Caldwell. Sources have said the problem surfaced in late spring.

Caldwell is also the Secretary of State, and as such, he oversees elections in the state, a rather heavy responsibility with the midterms less than two months away.

Does Sherrill have any concerns that the apparent investigation will impact how the election is run?

No was the short answer.

"We have been working around the clock to make sure our elections are ready to go ... that they are fair and safe," she said.

Republicans have jumped on this issue with some calling for Caldwell to resign, or at least step aside while the investigation runs its course.

What does the governor think about that?

Sherrill didn't really answer the question, saying, "Again, I can't comment on any ongoing investigation."

But she stressed that any investigation her office conducts will be fair, full, thorough and transparent.

And with that, it was over.

The governor spoke for about four minutes.