Just weeks after Miss Teen USA winner Umasofia Srivastava withdrew from the 2023 title, runner-up Stephanie Skinner also declined the role.
The organization, which is currently struggling to choose a winner for 2023, has yet to comment on the fiasco, but Ms Skinner took to Instagram to explain why she rejected the award.
“In light of recent events, I have decided to decline the title of Miss Teen USA 2023. This was not an easy decision to make,” she wrote. “This was a decision I never asked for, so I hope my choice is respected.”
Skinner said he had to decline the offer because of his commitments. “My words are everything to me. I have committed to an opportunity to take a world-class research position in Thailand, but that requires me to live abroad for the summer.”
The pageant contestants also mentioned winner Srivastava and Miss USA winner Noelia Vogt, who also stepped down from the title earlier this month.
“While we do not know exactly what led Noelia and Uma to step down, I send them immense love and support.”
She continued, “Yes, I am happy that this platform represents young women across the country, but I believe this is the right decision.”
“I am so grateful to call you my friend. I will always be in awe of your dedication and integrity,” Umasofia said in a statement.
Miss USA winner Voigt also commented on the post, writing, “I am so grateful to call you my friend. I will always be in awe of your dedication and integrity.”
This is a difficult time for the Miss USA organization as they are rushing to replace the winner due to the unsuccessful contest. After accepting the title in September, Vogt resigned last week, citing mental health as the reason.
“In life, I strongly believe in the importance of making decisions that you feel are best for yourself and your mental health,” she wrote in a statement. “As individuals, we grow by experiencing different things in life, which leads us to learn more about ourselves.”
Two days after Vogt’s announcement, UmaSophia resigned as Miss Teen USA.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to resign because my personal values are no longer fully aligned with the direction of the organization,” Umasofia wrote at the time.
On Monday, The CW, which has partnered with Miss USA for several years, said it is currently reconsidering whether to continue broadcasting Miss USA.
“In light of last week’s events, The CW Network is evaluating its relationship with both contestants,” the network said in a statement.
The Miss USA organization issued a statement last week saying, “The well-being of the titleholder is our top priority.”
