Question

a committee... introduced a bill to allow louisiana to seek statehood that specifically included west florida. this bill set off a debate about many different issues related to the inclusion of louisiana in the union. some representatives worried that the residents of the territory of orleans might be too loyal to france. others worried about the expansion of the united states in general.
which counterclaim best addresses the claims against granting louisiana statehood?
a) the united states spent too much money in acquiring the louisiana territory
b) the new state of louisiana will contribute economically to the united states
c) there are more people of spanish descent than french in orleans territory
d) there is no doubt that france will try to start a revolution in louisiana

Explanation:

The claims against granting Louisiana statehood involve worries about French loyalty and U.S. expansion. Option B states the new state will contribute economically, which addresses concerns about expansion/value. Option A is about acquisition cost (not statehood counter), C is about Spanish vs French descent (not addressing main claims), D supports French - related fears. So B is the best counterclaim.

Answer:

B. The new state of Louisiana will contribute economically to the United States