Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-12) will retire rather than seek a seventh term in Congress, she announced Monday. (Photo by Dana DiFilippo/New Jersey Monitor)
Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman announced Monday she will exit Congress at the end of her current term rather than seek reelection next year after nearly three decades in various levels of elected office in New Jersey.
Watson Coleman (D-12), the first Black congresswoman elected in New Jersey, said in a statement that she is confident retiring is the right choice for her and her family.
“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,” she said.
Watson Coleman was first elected to Congress in 2014 to replace then-Rep. Rush Holt.
Rep. Nellie Pou (D-08) called Watson Coleman’s announcement “a big hit for our state.”
“Over the last generation, there are few people from our state who have done more for civil rights, for workers, for ethics, and for kindness than Bonnie Watson Coleman. Bonnie is a leader in our delegation, respected by everyone,” Pou said in a statement.
Before ascending to Congress, Watson Coleman served 17 years in the General Assembly representing New Jersey’s 15th Legislative District, including four years as majority leader.
“It is my fervent hope that whoever is next elected to serve the people of the 12th Congressional District will be a public servant grounded in strong moral principles and an unabashed advocate in the United States Congress on behalf of those they have the privilege to represent,” she said.
Watson Coleman is one of the most progressive members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation. At 80, she is also its oldest member.
Representatives’ ages have increasingly been a focal point for voters. Concerns over lawmakers’ health redoubled after Reps. Bill Pascrell, 87, and Donald Payne Jr., 65, died in office last year.
Watson Coleman underwent treatment for lung cancer in 2018.
“I have never been a prideful person just as I have never taken my many blessings for granted, but I can say today that I believe we were able to make a tremendous positive impact for many people, and for that I am grateful. I am honored to have served my constituents who faithfully trusted me to be their voice,” the congresswoman said.
Watson Coleman’s retirement will spur a primary in the largely Democratic 12th Congressional District next year that could draw a broad field of candidates.
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