Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman, the first Black woman to represent New Jersey in Congress, announced on Monday that she will not seek re-election next year. At 81 years old, the Democratic congresswoman has been a trailblazer in New Jersey politics for many years.
Watson Coleman, who was born in Camden, N.J., joined Congress in 2015 after an impressive tenure in the State Assembly, where she served for eight terms and achieved the position of majority leader. In her statement announcing her decision, she reflected on the commitment to public service instilled in her by her parents, which guided her throughout her political career.
“I believe I have fulfilled that commitment to the very best of my abilities,” stated Watson Coleman, whose father also made his mark in the State Legislature. She emphasized her dedication to advocating for principled progressive policies, highlighting the importance of ensuring that no child, family, or individual should fall below a certain standard of dignity and support.
Her decision not to run again comes as she looks back on a rich legacy of service, marking the end of an important chapter in New Jersey’s political history. Watson Coleman’s influence is likely to resonate as she reflects on her contributions and the ongoing fight for social justice and progressive values.