Answer
Using the plurality-with-elimination method, Candidate B wins the straw vote.
Work Step by Step
With the plurality-with-elimination method, the candidate with the fewest number of first-place votes is eliminated in each round. After that candidate is eliminated, the other candidates ranked below that candidate on each ballot move up one spot. The rounds continue in this way until only one candidate remains, and this candidate is declared the winner.
In round 1, we can count the number of first-place votes for each candidate.
Candidate A: 400
Candidate B: 500
Candidate C: 350 + 200 = 550
In round 1, Candidate A has the fewest number of first-place votes, so Candidate A is eliminated. After Candidate A is eliminated, the other candidates ranked below Candidate A on each ballot move up one spot.
In round 2, we can count the number of first-place votes for each candidate.
Candidate B: 500 + 400 = 900
Candidate C: 350 + 200 = 550
In round 2, Candidate C has the fewest number of first-place votes, so Candidate C is eliminated. After Candidate C is eliminated, Candidate B is the only candidate remaining, so Candidate B is declared the winner.
Using the plurality-with-elimination method, Candidate B wins the straw vote.
