Colonists opposed virtual representation because it denied them actual, direct representation in Parliament, which they believed was essential for legitimate taxation and governance. They argued that since they did not have elected representatives in the British Parliament, any claim that they were "virtually represented" was a constitutional and political fiction used to justify taxation without their consent. The colonists viewed virtual representation as insufficient and invalid, demanding actual representatives elected by themselves to protect their rights, particularly the right "no taxation without representation." They believed virtual representation was a cover for political corruption and violated their rights as free British subjects, insisting that only assemblies with actual elected members could rightfully levy taxes on them.

Key reasons for their opposition included:

• The principle that no one is truly represented unless they have a vote and elect their representatives.
• Colonial assemblies were the only bodies they considered legitimate for taxation.
• Resistance to being taxed by a Parliament in which they had no direct voice.
• The belief that virtual representation was a "mere cobweb" used to entangle and deceive them politically.

This strong rejection of virtual representation contributed to the tensions that erupted into the American Revolution.