Move To The Progressive Conservatives
Thompson was frustrated by the lack of support the national party enjoyed from the provincial Social Credit parties in Alberta and British Columbia, where they formed the governments and ran powerful political machines. As well, Manning was becoming concerned with the leftward trajectory of both the federal Liberals and Progressive Conservatives. He encouraged Thompson to try to bring about a merger of the federal Social Credit and Progressive Conservative parties. Negotiations failed but, with the backing of both Manning and Robert Stanfield, Thompson decided to cross the floor to the Tories in hopes of influencing that party. He resigned as leader of Social Credit in March 1967, citing the lack of support for the federal Social Credit Party from its provincial wings. He then sought the Progressive Conservative nomination for his old seat. Despite vehement opposition from the local Tory riding association, he won the nomination and was reelected in 1968.
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