 Near the end of the Convention , Gerry , Randolph , and Mason emerged as the main force of opposition . Their fears were increased as the Convention moved from Madison 's vague Virginia Plan to the concrete plan of Rutledge 's Committee of Detail . Some have argued that Randolph 's attacks on the Constitution were motivated by political ambition , in particular his anticipation of possibly facing rival Patrick Henry in a future election . The main objection of the three was the compromise that would allow Congress to pass " navigation acts " with a simple majority in exchange for strengthened slave provisions . Among their other objections was an opposition to the office of vice president . 
