Resumen de Probability of reversal in an election with more than two candidates

Vijay K. Rohatgi

• Consider an election with three candidates A1, A2 and A3. Suppose that N is the total number of votes cast of which A1 receives a1 votes, A2 receives a2 votes and A3 receives a3 = N - (a1 + a2) votes. We assume without loss of generality that a1 > a2 > a3. Suppose further that n votes are irregular or suspect. If these votes are removed it is possible that the result of the election may be reversed. Does such a possibility preclude the determination of the rightful winner without holding a new election?