"Winnow"

winnow
Simple Definition of winnow

: to remove (people or things that are less important, desirable, etc.) from a larger group or list : to make (a list of possible choices) smaller by removing the less desirable choices

Here's a brief reminder:

THESE were the great GOP candidates a few months ago.

The primaries have "winnowed" these down to the best-of-the-best: Trump, Cruz, and Kasich!

Sigh.