New York rivals seize the day as the absence of Michael Bloomberg angers voters
With the New York mayoral election a month away, the result was seen as more or less in the bag for incumbent Michael Bloomberg - until he decided to snub the first televised debate of the campaign on Thursday.
'If you want to lead this city, you have an obligation to let New Yorkers know - in as many forums as possible - how you intend to lead this city,' said Democrat rival Fernando Ferrer, who faced off against Conservative contender Thomas Ognibene in the debate at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem.
'There's no question in my mind that he's made a great political mistake,' added Republican Charles Rangel.
Catcalls were heard at the theatre after it was announced Mr Bloomberg was not attending. An empty chair on the stage underlined his absence.
'I can't imagine anyone would turn down the opportunity to headline at the Apollo,' said Mr Ferrer, bidding for the third time to become the city's first Hispanic mayor.