Tyler justified his preemptive move on the grounds that Polk was likely to come under pressure to abandon immediate annexation and reopen negotiations under the Benton alternative .
Secretary Calhoun apprised President - elect Polk of the action , who demurred without comment .
Tyler justified his preemptive move on the grounds that Polk was likely to come under pressure to abandon immediate annexation and reopen negotiations under the Benton alternative .
Secretary Calhoun apprised President - elect Polk of the action , who demurred without comment .