Still , Clay 's opposition to annexation and western slavery expansion served him well among Northern Whigs and nearly secured him the election .
Had enough of these voting blocks cast their ballots for the anti-annexationist Clay in either state , he would have defeated Polk .
Anti-annexationist 's opposition to annexation and western slavery expansion served Clay well among Northern Whigs and nearly secured Polk the election .
Had enough of these voting blocks cast their ballots for the anti-annexationist Clay in either state , he would have defeated Polk .