An administrative law judge has recommended that Olympic champion Carl Lewis be allowed to run for state Senate.
The nine-time gold medalist declared his Democratic candidacy for the 7th District seat.
Republicans challenged Lewis saying he hasn't lived in the state the required four years.
The Burlington County Republican Committee released a statement after Wednesday's ruling, describing Lewis as "a carpetbagger who, despite his celebrity status, should have to play by the same rules as everybody else."
The 49-year-old Lewis testified that he has owned homes in his native New Jersey since 2005. But he was registered to vote in California, where he also owns a home, until last year.
The judge's nonbinding recommendation is not the final say in the challenge.
"In essence, the Judge punted due to the fact that he didn't have enough time to fully develop the record in this case," said GOP Consultant Chris Russell.
Politics
Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, a Republican, who also serves as secretary of state and oversees the Division of Elections, will make the final decision.
Lewis is running unopposed in the June 7 Democratic primary. He would face Republican State Sen. Dawn Marie Addiego in November.
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