Carl Lewis announces candidacy for New Jersey Senate

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Carl Lewis is one of the best track and field athletes of all time, with nine Olympic gold medals, including four in the long jump.

Now we’ll see how he does making another jump -- from athlete to politician.

On Monday, Lewis, 49, announced his candidacy to represent the area around his hometown of Willingboro in the New Jersey Senate. He will run as a Democrat in the 8th Legislative District, which is currently represented by Republican Dawn Addiego.

Lewis said he hopes to inspire people, encourage communities and improve educational opportunities for children. After his news conference, the Track and Field Hall of Fame member headed to Willingboro High School, where he has served as a volunteer track coach for four years.

Let’s just hope that when he’s out campaigning and finds himself with a microphone in his hand, he resists the urge to start singing.

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-- Chuck Schilken

The Associated Press contributed to this report.