 As the convention began , Senator Roscoe Conkling of New York , the floor leader for the Grant forces ( known as the Stalwart faction ) , proposed that the delegates pledge to support the eventual nominee in the general election . When three West Virginia delegates declined to be so bound , Conkling sought to expel them from the convention . Garfield rose to defend the men , giving a passionate speech in defense of their right to reserve judgement . The crowd turned against Conkling , and he withdrew the motion . The performance delighted Garfield 's boosters , who now believed more than ever that he was the only man who could attract a majority of the delegates ' votes . 
