Widespread gerrymandering can affect both state and national policy by:
A. Increasing the number of laws passed each year due to greater cooperation by elected officials at each level.
B. Increasing voter turnout and making elected officials more accountable to the citizens of each state.
C. Increasing the chances of one party enacting its platform in state legislatures and the House of Representatives.
D. Increasing cooperation between state and national governments to pass and enforce similar laws.

Gerrymandering, the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a specific political party, has significant implications on both state and national policies. The practice is often used to give one party an advantage by shaping districts in a way that maximizes their voting strength. The effects of gerrymandering can be far-reaching, impacting the legislative process and the representation of voters across different levels of government.

Explanation:
When gerrymandering is widespread, it can shift the balance of power within state legislatures and the U.S. House of Representatives. By manipulating district boundaries, a political party can create "safe" districts, making it more likely for their candidates to win. This can result in long-term advantages for the favored party, reducing competition and potentially skewing the legislative agenda. Gerrymandering can also affect voter engagement and policy outcomes by consolidating political power in a way that influences lawmaking processes at both the state and national levels.

Answer:
The correct answer is C. Widespread gerrymandering increases the chances of one party enacting its platform in state legislatures and the House of Representatives. By creating districts that favor one party, gerrymandering reduces competition and allows that party to secure a greater share of legislative seats, enabling them to pass laws that align with their platform.