Assemblyman Michael J. Cusick 63rd Assembly District
A lifelong resident of Staten Island, Michael J. Cusick came to the Assembly with valuable experience at all levels of government. Prior to his election, Cusick served as Director of Constituent Service for U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer, where he oversaw a vast caseload of constituent needs and issues statewide. His duties included working with elected officials throughout the state and serving as Senator Schumer’s liaison to all federal agencies. In addition, he managed the day-to-day operation of the senator’s New York City office, and helped keep the senator apprised of new and evolving issues across the state.
Previously, Cusick served as the Chief of Staff to former Staten Island Assemblyman Eric N. Vitaliano, managing staff and overseeing the assemblyman’s Albany and Staten Island offices. He was instrumental in researching and developing statewide legislation, including the law to close the Fresh Kills Landfill. Cusick was also Vitaliano’s representative to local and statewide civic, professional, and union organizations on legislative and community issues.
Shortly after graduating from Villanova University in 1991, Cusick began his career in public service as a Special Assistant to former President of the City Council Andrew J. Stein. He served as the office representative for the Borough of Staten Island and worked on issues regarding incineration and waste management alternatives.
An active member of many civic organizations, Cusick has served on the Staten Island Board of Directors of the Catholic Youth Organization and the Boy Scouts of America. He served as Staten Island Chapter President of the Villanova Alumni Association, and is a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, John D. Kearney Division 3, as well as the Staten Island Athletic Club.
He is also active in Democratic Party politics, serving as president of New York State Young Democrats from 1997 to 2000, is past president of Richmond County Young Democrats, and is a member of the New York State Democratic Committee representing the 63rd Assembly District.
His parents, Miriam Cusick and the late New York Supreme Court Justice Peter P. Cusick, instilled in Michael and his two brothers a strong commitment to their community. He currently lives with his wife Kristy in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Staten Island.
