Olympic track superstar Carl Lewis has jumped into a race for New Jersey's state Senate, saying he wants to help struggling children, families and seniors in the region where he grew up.

Lewis, 49, says he will be running as a Democrat to challenge incumbent Republican senator Dawn Addiego in the heavily Republican area east of Philadelphia.

"When I run - you can see my record - I run to win," he told a news conference.

Lewis, a nine-time Olympic gold medallist, has been living in the state where he grew up since 2005.

A political novice, Lewis says he is running to help young people, improve education and aid senior citizens.

He says a detailed platform will be coming soon.

"My focus will be on children, on the future," he said.

"We cannot rest until we make sure that our families can afford to live and raise their kids here, that our seniors can remain in their homes and afford their health and pharmaceutical costs."

He quoted his late father, choking up as he said he had been told: "Do what you think is right. Follow your head."

Lewis cut off questions from the media, saying he had to get to track practice at the high school in nearby Willingboro, where he grew up. He serves as a volunteer coach.

Lewis is considered one of the best track and field athletes ever produced by the United States.

He won Olympic gold medals in the 100 metres, 200 metres, long jump and sprint relay.

- Reuters