Watson Coleman Retiring at the End of Her Term [View all]

Source: Insider NJ

November 10, 2025, 11:34 am


Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-12) today announced that she will retire when her present term expires at the end of the 119th Congress. She will not seek re-election to a new term as the U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District concluding a remarkable, barrier-breaking career spanning over 50 years in public service to the State of New Jersey and the nation.

The Congresswoman made history in 2015, becoming the first African American woman to represent New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives. Before being elected to Congress, she served in the New Jersey General Assembly, becoming the Assembly Majority Leader, and was the first African American woman to be elected Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee. She has long been revered as a progressive champion, a dedicated public servant rooted in faith and family, and as an unrelenting fighter known for her tenacity and willingness to stand up against the toughest opponents in defense of what is right without concern for political consequence.

“I have been blessed in my life to be surrounded by loved ones who have always valued the importance of serving the public, and I have never taken that opportunity to serve for granted. I truly believe that ‘to whom much is given, much is required’ and, as such, I have always prioritized the people I represent above any personal or professional gain.

“The values and principles instilled in my brothers and me at a young age from our parents, John and Marie Watson, have been a guiding light on this incredible journey in public service and they are the very same ideals that inform my decision now. I made this decision with tremendous thought and reflection, and through many personal conversations with my husband Bill and my family. I am confident it is the right choice for me and my family who have graciously sacrificed by my side when I placed serving our community above all else and I can truly say, I am at peace with my decision.

Read more: https://www.insidernj.com/watson-coleman-retiring-at-the-end-of-her-term/

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She just turned 80 this year and represents NJ-12 (which includes the cities of Princeton and the NJ capital city of Trenton). She was involved in that altercation up in Newark with ICE as one of the members demanding to enter the facility there.