Unlike some other small-state representatives who looked to the creation of a strong central government to protect their interests against more powerful neighbors, Bedford sought to limit the powers of the new government.
Spre deosebire de alți reprezentanți ai unor state mici, care căutau crearea unui guvern federal puternic pentru a le proteja interesele împotriva vecinilor lor mai mari, Bedford a căutat constant limitarea puterii guvernului federal.