Why did senator clay oppose annexation?

Senator Henry Clay opposed the annexation of Texas primarily due to concerns over the expansion of slavery and its implications for national unity. He believed that annexation could exacerbate regional tensions between free and slave states, potentially leading to civil conflict. Additionally, Clay was wary of the potential for increased conflict with Mexico, which still considered Texas its territory. His vision for the nation emphasized cautious expansion and maintaining a delicate balance between competing interests.