New Jersey Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin was selected Thursday by the members of the Democratic caucus to lead the New Jersey General Assembly for a historic fifth term, following a strong showing for Democrats in this week’s legislative elections.

Members of the Assembly Democratic Caucus met in Trenton today to choose their leadership team for the 222nd Legislative Session, which begins in January 2026. Coughlin’s re-election as Speaker marks the first time in state history that a lawmaker will serve five terms in the role.

The vote came after Democrats expanded their Assembly majority to 55–25, successfully defending every incumbent seat and flipping three Republican-held districts — the party’s largest majority since the 1973 elections. Democrats may pick up two more seats, as several races remain too close to call.

High voter turnout across the state contributed to the party’s sweeping victories, which capped a two-year trend of Democratic gains in the lower house. Since 2023, Assembly Democrats have added nine seats, including the seat held by Assemblyman Avi Schnall. The last time any party gained four or more Assembly seats in consecutive elections was between 1989 and 1991.

Coughlin also announced that Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald (D-Camden, Burlington) will return for an eighth term in his leadership post. Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union) will begin her first full term as Speaker Pro Tempore, and Assemblywoman Linda Carter (D-Somerset, Union) will serve her first full term as Majority Conference Leader.

“I congratulate the leadership team and all of our new and returning members,” Coughlin said. “Our progress over the past eight years speaks for itself — from record property tax relief and the launch of Stay NJ, to lowering prescription drug costs, expanding access to housing, supporting working families, and leading the fight against food insecurity.”

Coughlin said the Democratic caucus will continue to focus on “kitchen table issues” and pledged to work closely with Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill in the upcoming term.

The 222nd Legislative Session will officially reorganize on January 13, 2026, when members are sworn in and the full Assembly formally votes on its leadership slate.