1st NJ African American Congresswoman To Retire After Serving 50 Years In Public Service

DISTRICT 12 — After serving the public for more than 50 years, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) announced Monday that she will retire when her present term expires at the end of the 119th Congress.

Coleman will not seek re-election to a new term as the U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District.

"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," stated Coleman. "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."

In 2015, Coleman made history by becoming the first African American woman to represent New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Before being elected to Congress, Coleman 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.

"I made a commitment years ago to always lead the charge on behalf of those I represent, and I believe I have fulfilled that commitment to the very best of my abilities. I have always stood on the frontlines in the fight for principled progressive policies and my work has centered on the belief that there must be a floor below which we should never allow any child, family, or person to fall. This is evident in my legislative agenda to build an economy for all, reform our criminal justice system, achieve health equity, and eliminate poverty," stated Coleman.

While Coleman is not seeking re-election, she said there is still more to be done and plans to continue serving her constituents through to the last day of my term.

"We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history. Last week, our country saw what happens when we work together and we stand against the horrific and oppressive policies emanating from the Trump White House. In elections across the country and especially right here at home in New Jersey, we saw the undeniable power when diverse coalitions, marginalized voices, and organized communities stand with one voice united behind shared goals rooted in the belief that we are our brother’s keeper. Those goals do not change. We must continue to stand and fight against those who would target the vulnerable and attempt to harm our democracy," said Coleman.

Several of dignitaries commented on Coleman's retirement news.

"From the New Jersey General Assembly to the halls of Congress, Bonnie has been a relentless champion for our nation’s working families. At every stage of her career, she has been a model of principled, progressive leadership — fighting to build a stronger economy, restore trust in our justice system, and end the scourge of poverty. And as the first Black woman to represent New Jersey in the House of Representatives, she has blazed a trail for generations of New Jerseyans," said Governor Phil Murphy.

"It has been a great privilege and blessed experience to serve with Bonnie Watson Coleman in the United States House of Representatives," said Congressman Jim Clyburn. "It has also been an honor to have been tutored by her and to have partnered with her in our efforts to make the many things that make this country great accessible and affordable to all. Bonnie has been a real workhorse on behalf of her constituents and she will be sorely missed by them and by us, her colleagues and friends."

"It is with deep admiration that I extend my congratulations to my dear friend and former colleague, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, on her well-deserved retirement. Bonnie's career has been nothing short of extraordinary—a legacy built on courage, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to justice," said former Chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus and Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass. "Her advocacy for criminal justice reform, equitable economic opportunity, and human dignity has changed lives and strengthened communities. Whether championing the rights of women and families, fighting for fairer re-entry programs for the formerly incarcerated, or protecting our environment, Bonnie led with integrity and empathy every step of the way. Congress will miss her wisdom, her warmth, and that unmistakable spirit of determination that could inspire an entire chamber. Her service in the House of Representatives will forever stand as a symbol of progress, compassion, and unyielding service."