[2] Echandi was the only deputy for the National Union Party fraction for the 1953-1958 period, and he was in open opposition to the National Liberation Party (PLN) legislative fraction and the executive power presidency of Figueres Ferrer, also of PLN.

During the tense invasion of 1955 when former president Rafael Angel Calderon's supporters and their international allies tried to invade Costa Rica's territory and were successfully repelled by Figueres Ferrer’ government, Echandi was accused of being Calderonista and been offered an office as minister from Calderón.

[3] The opposition, encompassed by both Echandi's party National Union and Calderón's Independent Republican left the Assembly in protest.

[3] As expected, Rossi's departure and his new party caused a spoiler effect dividing the Social Democratic vote and Echandi won the election with the support of Calderonists.

[3] Echandi did fulfill his promise and allowed Calderón and family to return and passed a general amnesty for all factions.