Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman tests positive for COVID after sheltering during U.S. Capitol siege

Watson Coleman announced on Monday that she tested positive for COVID after sheltering in place with “several colleagues who refused to wear masks” during the Capitol siege last Wednesday.

Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman has tested positive for COVID and said she believes she was exposed at the U.S. Capitol during the protests against the certification of the presidential election on January 6.

“I received a positive test result for COVID-19, and am home resting at this time,” Watson Coleman said. “While I am experiencing mild, cold-like symptoms, I remain in good spirits and will continue to work on behalf of my constituents.”

Watson Coleman, a 75-year-old cancer survivor, is beginning her third term in Congress. She hails from the central New Jersey district that includes the capital, Trenton.

The congresswoman said she received a positive rapid antigen test result and is isolating as she awaits the results of her Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test.

As of Monday, Watson Coleman was admitted to a local hospital under doctor’s order.

“While I feel ok, on my doctor’s advice I’m on my way to a local hospital for monoclonal antibody treatment. I thank you for the outpouring of supportive messages. The love you’ve sent has been overwhelming,” she said. “Please, wear a mask and social distance.”