What Was the Significance of the Argument Concerning the Extension

What was the significance of the argument concerning the extension of slavery into territory acquired following the Mexican War?

A) It became a public debate over the question of outlawing slavery throughout the entire United States.
B) It represented a struggle between the North and South for control of the federal government.
C) It inspired a series of political compromises that resulted in the United States gaining more territory in the Caribbean.
D) It created an opportunity for the Democrats to consolidate their power.
E) It undermined membership in Protestant churches throughout the North.