Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman, Democratic from New Jersey

Bonnie Watson Coleman

Representative · New Jersey · Democrat

Bonnie Watson Coleman

Biography
Bonnie Watson Coleman began her career as a community organizer and state legislator, building a reputation for advocacy in New Jersey. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for New Jersey’s 12th District in 2014, she prioritizes criminal justice reform, affordable healthcare, and economic equity. Watson Coleman authored the End For-Profit Prisons Act and serves on the House Appropriations Committee, where she influences federal spending to benefit underserved communities. She approaches her role with a collaborative, constituent-focused style, striving to advance policies rooted in fairness and opportunity for all residents of her district.
Education
  • B.A., Thomas Edison State College, Trenton, NJ
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2015–Present

    Represented New Jersey's 12th congressional district for 6 terms.

  • Member, New Jersey General Assembly

    1998–2014

    (Majority Leader, 2006–10

  • Assistant Commissioner, New Jersey Department of Community Affairs

  • Bureau Chief, New Jersey Division on Civil Rights

  • First African-American Woman to Serve in Position)

Policy Focus
Taxation16%
Health15%
Crime and Law Enforcement13%
Civil Rights and Liberties, Minority Issues11%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Bonnie Watson Coleman's record in Congress.

  • Criminal Justice Reform

    Co-sponsored the First Step Act to reduce recidivism and reform federal prison sentencing.

  • Opioid Crisis Response

    Helped secure federal funding for New Jersey's opioid addiction prevention and treatment programs.

  • Affordable Housing Advocacy

    Introduced the Housing Assistance for Families Act to expand access to affordable housing vouchers.

  • Gun Violence Prevention

    Co-sponsored legislation to strengthen background checks and close loopholes in gun sales.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on the Budget
  • House Committee on Appropriations

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