Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis has announced he will run for New Jersey Senate, RadarOnline.com has learned.

The 49-year-old made the announcement during a press conference in Burlington County on Monday stating he will run as a Democrat in the 8th legislative district now represented by Republican Dawn Addiego.

Lewis, a New Jersey native, will represent his hometown of Willlingboro and says he hopes to inspire people, encourage communities and improve educational opportunities for children.