revolt and a new leadership vote. Every member of the party had a right to vote by mail-in ballot. Harper won on the first ballot. 2004 Conservative Party leadership election The Canadian Alliance and the Progressive Conservative parties merged in December 2003. In March, 2004, the party held its first leadership election. The vote was based on the 308 Conservative riding associations. Each riding association had 100 points. All party members had the right to vote through their riding associations, and each riding association's points were allocated in proportion to the local vote. 1 Rounding error. See also Electoral history of Paul Martin - Harper's principal opponent in two general elections and predecessor as Prime Minister. Electoral history of Justin Trudeau - Harper's successor as Prime Minister. References External links Library of Parliament: History of Federal Ridings since 1867 Harper, Stephen