and twice in general elections. He was elected each time, with substantial majorities. He served a total of 10 years, 1 month, 28 days in the Commons. Early in 1993, Mulroney announced his retirement from politics. He returned to the private practice of law. In the subsequent general election in 1993, the Progressive Conservatives were almost wiped out, going from a majority government to two seats in the Commons. Federal general elections: 1984 and 1988 Mulroney led the Progressive Conservative Party in two general elections (1984) and (1988). He won both, defeating John Turner each time. Federal election, 1984 In his first election as leader, Mulroney led the Progressive Conservatives to the largest majority (in seat numbers) in Canadian history. 1 Leader of the Opposition when election was called; Prime Minister after election. 2 Prime Minister when election was called; Leader of the Opposition after the election. 3 Table does not include parties which received votes but did not elect any members. Federal election, 1988 In his second general election as leader, Mulroney was returned to office, but with a reduced majority. 1 Prime Minister when election was called; Prime Minister after election. 2 Leader of the Opposition when election was called; Leader of the Opposition after the election. 3 Table does not include parties which received votes but did not elect any members. Federal constituency elections: 1983 to 1988 Mulroney stood for election to the House of Commons three times. He was elected each time, with substantial majorities. 1983 Federal By-Election: Central Nova The incumbent, Elmer MacKay, resigned his seat on June 15, 1983, after Mulroney was elected party leader, to give Mulroney an opportunity to enter the House of Commons. Elected. 1 Rounding error. 1984 Federal Election: Manicouagan In the 1984 general election, Mulroney stood for election in the riding of Manicouagan in Quebec. Elected. X Incumbent. 1 Rounding error. 1988 Federal Election: Charlevoix In the 1988 general election, Mulroney stood for election in the Quebec riding of Charlevoix, which included his home town, Baie-Comeau. Elected. 1 Rounding error. Progressive Conservative Party Leadership Conventions: 1976 and 1983 Mulroney ran in two Progressive Conservative leadership contests, in 1976 and 1983. He was defeated in the 1976 convention by Joe Clark, who became party leader. After Clark lost the 1980 general election, there was another leadership convention, in 1983. This time, Mulroney won and became party leader. 1976 Leadership Convention