Commodore John Rodgers of USS President declined the challenge because he feared the intervention of the rest of British squadron under Commodore Philip Broke that Guerriere was part of.
Comodorul John Rodgers⁠(d), comandant al navei USS President a refuzat provocarea deoarece se temea de intervenția restului escadrilei britanice condusă de comodorul Philip Broke⁠(d), din care făcea parte Guerriere.