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New Miss USA crowned amid ongoing turmoil at pageant

Miss USA Crown Goes to Hawaii's Savannah Gankiewicz Amidst Pageant Turmoil

May 16, 2024

In a surprising turn of events, Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii was crowned Miss USA 2024 on Wednesday, following a period of upheaval within the Miss USA organization. Gankiewicz, originally the 2023 first runner-up, takes the title after the sudden resignation of Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt earlier this month.

Mental Health Advocate Takes the Crown

Gankiewicz, a 28-year-old mental health first aid responder and anti-bullying advocate, expressed her commitment to making a positive impact during her short reign. She plans to address mental well-being and advocate for those in need, aiming to empower future Miss USA contestants.

New Miss USA crowned amid ongoing turmoil at pageant

Miss USA Organization Faces Allegations

Voigt's resignation, citing mental health concerns, sparked controversy after a leaked letter detailed a "culture of fear and control" allegedly fostered by Miss USA CEO Laylah Rose. The letter also raised concerns about inadequate support for Miss USA titleholders, including an incident of alleged sexual harassment Voigt experienced at a parade event.

Miss Universe Organization and Rose remain silent

Despite repeated requests for comment from CNN, neither the Miss Universe Organization nor Rose have responded to the allegations. The silence fuels ongoing discussions about the future of the Miss USA pageant.

New Miss USA crowned amid ongoing turmoil at pageant

Miss Teen USA Title Remains Unfilled

Further highlighting the turmoil, the Miss Teen USA 2023 title remains vacant after UmaSofia Srivastava relinquished her crown, citing a misalignment with the organization's direction. This follows the refusal of the 2023 first runner-up, Stephanie Skinner, to take the Miss Teen USA title.

Miss USA 2024 Pageant to Proceed in Los Angeles

Despite the recent controversies, Miss USA announced that the 2024 pageants for both Miss USA and Miss Teen USA will take place in Los Angeles and air on the CW network. However, reports suggest the CW might be re-evaluating its partnership with the Miss USA organization.

New Miss USA crowned amid ongoing turmoil at pageant

Calls for Change Grow Louder

The recent resignations have ignited calls for reform within the Miss USA organization. Several former Miss USA state titleholders have voiced their support for Voigt, and Miss Colorado USA 2023 Arianna Lemus recently resigned, citing concerns about silenced voices and compromised values. The mothers of both Voigt and Srivastava have spoken out on national television, urging stricter protections for contestants and questioning the organization's treatment of titleholders.

Gankiewicz's Reign Focuses on Rebuilding and Transition

Gankiewicz's brief reign will primarily focus on supporting the incoming class of 2024 contestants and advocating for rebuilding efforts in Lahaina, Maui. However, Lemus' call for better protections highlights the need for significant changes within the Miss USA organization before the 2024 pageant.