USAU.S. HouseDemocratic PartyNew Jersey · 12th congressional districtMember of the House of Representatives
Bonnie Watson Coleman
Profile
Bonnie Watson Coleman is an American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 12th congressional district since 2015, becoming the first African-American woman to represent the state in Congress. A member of the Democratic Party and the Congressional Progressive Caucus, she previously served in the New Jersey General Assembly for 17 years, including a tenure as Majority Leader. Her legislative career has focused on criminal justice reform, anti-discrimination legislation such as the CROWN Act, and expanding access to paid family leave and healthcare. In November 2025, she announced she would not seek reelection in 2026.
Details
- Born
- February 6, 1945 · 81 years old
- Birth place
- Camden, New Jersey
- Education
- Ewing High School, Rutgers University, Thomas Edison State College
- Career
- Field representative for the New Jersey State Division on Civil Rights, Director of the Office of Civil Rights, Contract Compliance and Affirmative Action in the New Jersey Department of Transportation, Assistant Commissioner in the Department of Community Affairs
