Why would and South Carolina argue that states should be able to count the slaves to receive more repreentation in congress?

South Carolina argued that states should count enslaved individuals for congressional representation to enhance their political power and influence in the federal government. By counting slaves in the population, Southern states could secure more congressional seats and electoral votes, thereby amplifying their voice in national affairs. This was crucial for maintaining their economic interests, which heavily relied on slavery, and for protecting their political agenda against Northern opposition. Ultimately, it was a strategic move to ensure that the Southern way of life and its economic foundations were preserved in the face of growing abolitionist sentiments.