'Bachelor' star Ben Higgins confirms he's not running for Colorado public office

Inside 'Bachelor' Ben Higgins' New Life With Lauren Bushnell in Denver: 'They Are Both So in Love'
Inside 'Bachelor' Ben Higgins' New Life With Lauren Bushnell in Denver: 'They Are Both So in Love'

Looks like Ben Higgins won't be taking a seat in the Colorado House of Representatives after all.

Following weeks of speculation that the former Bachelor star was running for office, the 28-year-old software consultant revealed that after "exploring the idea," he has decided to drop out of the race.

EXCLUSIVE: 'Bachelorette' JoJo Fletcher Talks Ben Higgins, Why She Can't Stop Crying

"I regret that I must withdraw my candidacy," Higgins said in a statement obtained by ET on Friday. "Despite my best efforts to pursue this opportunity in good faith, I recently received information that has made such a pursuit unworkable. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I will not be able to move forward as a candidate."

"I find solace in knowing that our intentions and actions have been fair and sincere," the statement continued. "I entered into this endeavor wanting to bring positive change to my community, and it is with that same spirit that I will move forward, albeit on a different path."

Rumors started swirling that Higgins was running back in June when he launched a "benhigginsforcolorado.com" website, calling for supporters. "Thank you for your support as Ben explores his opportunities to make a positive impact on his local community," the website's homepage, which is currently still active, reads.

PHOTOS: Ben Higgins and Lauren Bushnell together

WATCH: Inside Ben Higgins and Lauren Bushnell's Life in Denver

"Whatever lies ahead, love, grace, and hope are ideals that guide my life. I will take them with me into my next adventure," Higgins said in a statement at the time. "Lauren [Bushnell] and I aren't sure yet what that will be, but in terms of representing House District 4, [Republican candidate] Willie Pinkston is an amazing person and any decision I make regarding entering the race will be based on what is best for Willie, his family and for Lauren and me."

Higgins resides in Denver with his fiancée, Lauren Bushnell. The reality star popped the question to the 25-year-old flight attendant during the season 20 finale of The Bachelor, which aired in March. The two are currently gearing up for their newest reality series, Ben and Lauren: Happily Ever After, which is set to premiere in October on Freeform.

WATCH: Ben Higgins and Lauren Bushnell Celebrate Their Engagement With Family and Friends

Earlier this month, the adorable duo finally celebrated their engagement with a long overdue trip to Portland, Oregon. The reality stars spent the weekend dancing, indulging in sweet treats and taking selfies with their closest friends and family.

PHOTOS: Ben Higgins on 'The Bachelor'

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