Democrat Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman wins re-election in New Jersey

Democratic U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman has won a second term representing New Jersey’s 12th District.

Watson Coleman, the first black woman elected to Congress in state history, defeated Republican meat wholesaler Steven Uccio (YOU’-see-o), of East Windsor. Watson Coleman is the only female member of the state’s 12-person delegation.

Federal Election Commission records show Watson Coleman spent about $630,000 in the race, while Uccio who had no cash in the bank

Watson Coleman, of Ewing, served in the state Assembly before winning election to Congress in 2014.

New Jersey has a culturally diverse congressional delegation, including black and Latino members. But it has lagged when it comes to women representing the state.

Before Watson Coleman, Republican Marge Roukema was the last of five women to represent the state in Congress.