Which reason best displays why americans would debate gaining the philippines?

The reason which best displays why Americans would debate gaining against the Philippines: American imperialism went against Americas founding freedom and independence principle.

The American leadership when it comes to imperialism leans more towards the exceptionalism which beliefs in democracy and liberty. The American Anti-imperialism league are the great opponents of imperialism since it is believed to be in conflict with the American ideals of Republic and the “consent of the governed”.  

Imperialism was all about the extension of power, in turn, strengthening the military, economic, and culture of other countries. During the Philippines imperialism, the American sole purpose was to protect Philippine from European invaders even though there are other speculations.

it further strained relations between the north and the south and convinced

they wanted the u.s. to fight on the side of the central powers.