Bonnie Watson Coleman Won’t Seek Re-Election in 2026
Democratic Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman from New Jersey stated on Monday that she will not run for re-election in 2026.
The 80-year-old representative, who has served New Jersey’s 12th District for over a decade, mentioned that her decision came after “many personal conversations” with her husband, Bill, and family. “Now is the time to pass the torch,” she expressed in her announcement.
“I can truly say that I am at peace with my decision,” Watson Coleman reflected, noting that it’s the right choice for her and her family, who have been deeply involved in community service alongside her. “I made a promise many years ago that I would always lead the way on behalf of the people I represent, and I believe I have fulfilled that promise to the best of my ability,” she added.
Watson Coleman made history in 2015 as the first African American woman from New Jersey to serve in Congress. She has played a significant role in appropriations and budgets within the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
In her statement, she highlighted her achievements in creating an inclusive economy, reforming the criminal justice system, promoting health equity, and working to eliminate poverty. Additionally, she endorsed a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict aimed at securing peace and dignity for both parties involved.
This year, Watson Coleman found herself in the spotlight during an incident with immigration officials at a detention center in Newark, where Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on suspicion of trespassing.
The 12th District covers areas in Mercer, Somerset, Union, and Middlesex counties. Last November, she won against Republican Darius Mayfield by a margin of nearly 25 percentage points.
Kyle Little, a fitness studio owner, has entered the race as a Democrat to succeed Watson Coleman. By the end of September, quite a few candidates hadn’t managed to raise significant funds.
Following Watson Coleman’s announcement, East Brunswick Mayor Brad Cohen and Somerset County Commissioner Chanel Robinson also declared their intentions to run for her seat, as reported by the New Jersey Globe.
