INDIANAPOLIS -- The Democratic nominee declined to appear at a community forum Tuesday night that was supposed to showcase the three candidates vying for the 7th district congressional seat in a March special election.

Andre Carson, grandson of the late Rep. Julia Carson, whose seat was left vacant when she died, had apparently promised to be at the forum but didn't show.

A small crowd was on hand for the forum at Arlington Heights Baptist Church, 6News' Renee Jameson reported.

Republican nominee, State Rep. Jon Elrod (pictured, right), said fiscal reform and constituent services are two of his top priorities.

"We expect to help out our disabled, our elderly, veterans who get their benefits," Elrod said. "I also want to create a real workshop for small businesses and non profits."

Libertarian candidate Sean Shepard (pictured, left) also attended, saying a vote for him would be a vote for change.

"To not do politics as usual -- to go in and vote for real change," Shepard said.

Carson's campaign said he did not accept an invitation to attend because he had another engagement.

Brad Klopfenstein, forum organizer and former executive director of the Marion County Libertarian Party, said Carson had agreed to be there but backed out on Tuesday.

"I'm a little surprised about what I've heard about them claiming that they had not confirmed that they were going to be here today because I received two calls that they would show up," Klopfenstein said.

Indianapolis' former Deputy Mayor Melina Kennedy was there on Carson's behalf.

"He wants to make sure that everybody's interests are represented, and that's why he's running for congress," Kennedy said.

Carson's campaign manager told 6News that they are still considering future joint appearances with the other candidates, but time is running out. The special election is set for March 11.