Overview

Craig J. Coughlin is a New Jersey state legislator who serves as speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly and represents the 19th Legislative District. The district includes municipalities in Middlesex County, including Woodbridge Township, Perth Amboy, Carteret, and South Amboy.

Coughlin has served continuously in the New Jersey General Assembly since 2010. He became speaker in 2018, presiding over the lower chamber of the state legislature.

In addition to his legislative service, Coughlin has worked as an attorney and has held leadership roles in regional public organizations. As speaker, he oversees legislative operations in the Assembly, including committee assignments, legislative scheduling, and negotiations on statewide policy and budget matters.

Political Career

Speaker, New Jersey General Assembly (2018–present)

Assemblyman, New Jersey Legislative District 19 (2010–present)

Key Policy Areas

Economic development and redevelopment

Transportation and infrastructure investment

State fiscal policy and budgeting

Workforce development and labor policy

Community development and municipal support

Notable Actions / Initiatives

Elected speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly in 2018.

Presided over legislative sessions and Assembly operations during multiple legislative terms.

Participated in legislative negotiations on the New Jersey state budget and economic development policy.

Supported initiatives related to infrastructure investment and workforce development.

Education

St. John’s University, B.S.

St. John’s University School of Law, J.D.

Personal

Birth date: January 31, 1958

Residence: Woodbridge Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey

Sources

New Jersey Legislature, Assembly Speaker Coughlin biography: https://njleg.gov/legislative-roster/319/assemblyman-coughlin

Reviewed October 28, 2026.