In yet another blow to the Democrats’ prospects in upcoming elections, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), 80, announced she will not seek re-election in 2026, joining a wave of aging Democrats retiring from Congress, including Nancy Pelosi (85), Sen. Dick Durbin (80), and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (78).
For context, despite leading NJ’s 12th District since 2015, she cited the need to “pass the torch.” This retirement is a significant generational shift, with Democrats struggling to replace their aging leadership or to find candidates who can appeal to normal people instead of radicals and win elections the way older generations could.
Announcing her decision to retire, Coleman said, “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 front lines in the fight for principled progressive policies.”
Digging into the details, the Democrat declared, “While I am not seeking re-election, there is still more to be done in my last year in public office. I absolutely intend to continue serving my constituents in the 12th District straight through to the last day of my term,” adding, “I believe now is the time to pass the torch to the next leader who will continue leading this charge.”
Issuing his own response, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement, “Watson Coleman broke barriers as the Majority Leader of the New Jersey General Assembly… Her entire career has been focused on making America live up to its promise of liberty and justice for all. Rep. Watson Coleman will be deeply missed by the House Democratic Caucus.”
Echoing these comments, New Jersey Democrat Rep. Nellie Pao offered a similar set of remarks. “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,” she said in a post to X.
Adding to her previous comments, she noted, “I am sad Bonnie is retiring after this session, but I look forward to serving with Bonnie through the rest of this Congress and continuing to learn from her. I will miss you, my friend.”
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Likewise, Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ) noted, “Bonnie Watson Coleman blazed trails for New Jersey… Bonnie’s fierce commitment to her constituents and warm smile will be deeply missed by myself, our delegation, and people across our country.”
Building on these previous comments, Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way stated, “For over 25 years, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman has been a true champion for the people of New Jersey, leading with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice and equality.”
Offering insight into her values, Rep. Watson Coleman said, “The commitment to public service instilled by her parents had helped to guide her decision to step aside… [She hopes voters elect representatives who] stand ready to ‘get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and help redeem the soul of America.’”
Watch coverage of another important Democrat resignation here: