Ben Carson Bows Out of Fox News GOP Presidential Debate in Detroit March 3

Mar 02, 2016 02:56 PM EST

Christian, GOP presidential candidate and retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson made an announcement Wednesday afternoon that he decided not to attend the Fox News GOP Presidential Debate Thursday evening, March 3, in Detroit, Mich.

In an official statement released on his website, Carson said he sees no "political path forward" after his Super Tuesday losses. He did not officially suspend his campaign, saying he'll discuss the "future of this movement" during a speech Friday at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C.

Even though Carson will not be in his hometown of Detroit on Thursday, he said he remains deeply committed to my home nation, America.

"I do not see a political path forward in light of last evening's Super Tuesday primary results," Carson communicated in a written statement.

"However, this grassroots movement on behalf of 'We the People' will continue. Along with millions of patriots who have supported my campaign for President, I remain committed to saving America for future generations."

Carson said Americans must not depart from goals to restore what God and our Founders intended for this exceptional nation.

"I appreciate the support, financial and otherwise, from all corners of America," he said.

"Gratefully, my campaign decisions are not constrained by finances; rather by what is in the best interests of the American people."

Carson's supporters were quick to react on social media. Cathy Cellucci Scott told him he was truly the best man running in this race. "We have much respect for you and your ideas and are very sad to hear this."

Carolyn Hill Ford posted that she thought Carson was the only candidate that should be president. "Your intelligence and judgment on issues is outstanding."

Fox News called Carson the consummate outsider candidate. Known for his affable, soft-spoken, and sometimes-awkward speaking style, he was an unpredictable presence on the debate stage and at rallies, Fox stated.

Carson enjoyed a surge in the polls last year, at one point becoming competitive with Donald Trump. But he has not won a single contest, and was solidly in last place in the delegate count following Super Tuesday.