He refused to provide direct relief aid
Although Hoover did criticize the New Deal, he did so after he left the presidency, when President Roosevelt was in power, so that is not the reason his presidency was unpopular. He believed strongly in individuality and personal responsibility which is why he worried about the consequences of Government intervention, that is why he refused to provide direct relief aid.
D) wording
I know I just took the test, and thus is the correct answer.
Answer/Explanation
The US sought to defend its eastern border from attack and drive Spain from power in the Americas.