ATLANTA — An empty podium stood alongside Democratic gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms during the Atlanta Press Club’s debate for Georgia governor after her Republican opponent, Rick Jackson, declined to participate.

Bottoms appeared alone on stage, marking the first time since 1994 that a major-party candidate for Georgia governor has skipped the Atlanta Press Club’s debate.

“Rick Jackson is the first gubernatorial candidate not to stand here in 32 years,” Bottoms said.

Jackson chose to campaign across Georgia with Gov. Brian Kemp instead of attending the debate.

During the event, Bottoms criticized her opponent’s absence.

“It’s unfortunate that my opponent has chosen to fly around the state in his private jet today rather than to be here and face you,” Bottoms said.

She also questioned Jackson’s business record, stating, “He has missed this debate. He’d rather hide behind his billions than explain to you his record of making billions off the taxpayers of Georgia.”

Jackson defended his decision not to participate, saying voters are more concerned about issues such as affordability and gas prices than political debates.

The Republican candidate said he has spoken with thousands of Georgians during his campaign and that none have asked him about participating in a debate.

WSB Radio’s Ashley Simmons & Rob Archer contributed to this story.