Gerrymandering is the practice of drawing electoral district boundaries in a way that favors a particular political party or group. This manipulation can dilute or concentrate votes, leading to skewed electoral outcomes that do not accurately reflect public sentiment. By creating districts that advantage incumbents or specific demographics, it can undermine the fairness of elections. The influence of gerrymandering is significant because it can entrench political power and reduce competition, ultimately weakening the democratic process and voter representation.