Mark McLaughlin of Riverhead has been named by Assembly Member Jodi Giglio (R-Second Assembly District) as her chief of staff. Giglio made the announcement June 25.
McLaughlin, 47, began working in Giglio’s district office as a legislative aide in August 2023 and shortly thereafter was named district office director.
McLaughlin, who was appointed chairperson of the Riverhead Town Anti-Bias Task Force last year, was honored by the Suffolk County Legislature in April as a “champion of diversity” in the First Legislative District.

He said he is “thrilled” with his appointment. “I look forward to serving our community and supporting Assemblywoman Giglio’s initiatives,” McLaughlin said in an email.
McLaughlin has had a career as an entertainer and vocalist under the stage name “Mark MK.” He has served as master of ceremonies at various community events. He has performed the National Anthem at local events, including the town’s inauguration ceremonies on Jan. 1, and during opening ceremonies for the Mets at Citi Field and for the New York Liberty basketball team at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The survival of local journalism depends on your support.
We are a small family-owned operation. You rely on us to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Just a few dollars can help us continue to bring this important service to our community.
Support RiverheadLOCAL today.

























