? Newark's only mayoral candidate may soon have some competition from a familiar political foe ? the current mayor.

Aides close to Mayor Sharpe James (D-Newark) have said he will not seek re-election, but a published report claims James has filed the necessary petitions to get on the ballot. However, he reportedly told the city clerk to delay verifying the documents. Seton Hall Political Science Department Chair Joe Marbach says while the behavior is unusual, Mayor James is decisive and believes the move is part of a strategy. Democrat Cory Booker remains the only official mayoral candidate. Booker, who has lost to James before, says he is confident his endorsements and momentum will win the race.

Mayor James could not be reached for comment. If he runs and wins, it would be his sixth term as mayor.