Trenton, NJ – Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman said Wednesday she voted against the latest Department of Homeland Security funding bill, citing ongoing concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which she described as “out of control.”
In a post to X, Watson Coleman said she opposed the measure because ICE continues to prioritize “meeting arbitrary quotas and filling detention hall beds” over ensuring the civil rights and safety of law-abiding residents. “Until real reforms are made that respect the safety and security of our communities, I cannot vote to provide further funding toward a seemingly lawless agency,” she wrote.
The House of Representatives passed H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 , with a vote of 341 to 88, and H.R. 7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026 , with a vote of 220 to 207.
The vote comes amid renewed debate in Congress over federal immigration enforcement and detention policy. Progressive lawmakers, including Watson Coleman, have repeatedly called for greater oversight of ICE’s budget, accountability for detention practices, and the redirection of resources toward community-based alternatives.
The DHS appropriations package, which funds border operations, disaster response, and cybersecurity programs, narrowly passed the House with bipartisan support despite opposition from several Democratic members representing immigrant-heavy districts.
Key Points: New Jersey congresswoman votes against DHS bill, citing ‘lawless’ ICE operations – Trenton
- Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman said she voted against the DHS funding bill due to concerns about ICE’s conduct and priorities.
- The congresswoman criticized the agency for focusing on detention quotas over community safety and civil rights.
- The funding measure passed the House despite opposition from several Democratic lawmakers seeking immigration enforcement reforms.