The saga of Carl Lewis’ attempt to run for the State Senate has taken a new turn. Yesterday, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a decision of the district court and held, by a 2-1 vote, that Lewis could appear on the ballot. Though the panel will issue a full decision later, the majority’s rationale was that New Jersey lacks a sufficient interest in its residency requirement to keep Lewis off the ballot based on that requirement. Judges Ambro and Vanaskie formed the majority. Judge Scirica dissented.
Absent any reversal of that ruling on rehearing, en banc review, or otherwise, Lewis gets to run the race. With only two contestants, he is likely to win a gold or silver medal. In this new sport, however, only gold counts.