Miss USA Contestants Reveal the Pageant Rules That Shocked Them the Most (Exclusive)

Miss USA Contestants Shocked by Pageant Rules

The Miss USA pageant has undergone significant rule changes in recent years, allowing married women, mothers, and those over 28 to compete. However, there are still some strict regulations in place for contestants and titleholders. As the organization prepares for its 2025 pageant in Reno, Nevada, several Miss USA hopefuls have revealed the rules that surprised them the most.

Since its establishment in the 1950s, the Miss USA organization has adapted to the times with various reforms and adjustments due to leadership changes. Despite these changes, the pageant system still upholds certain rules, some of which may not be immediately apparent. State winners preparing for the upcoming national competition are discovering new guidelines, making this year’s event particularly interesting.

One noteworthy change is the removal of the age cap, allowing women over 28 to participate in the competition. This adjustment has given women like Jenny Ting Crawford, who will be representing Idaho at this year’s Miss USA, the opportunity to compete again. As a former contestant, Jenny expressed pride in being able to return to the competition 13 years later at the age of 37, highlighting the importance of not letting age limit success.

Miss Florida USA, Lou Schieffelin, was surprised to learn about a previous rule that prohibited pageant winners from appearing on reality shows during their reign. With new leadership in place, she hinted at the potential for a Miss USA reality series in the future, showing a shift in the organization’s approach to media representation.

Another standout contestant, MonaLesa Brackett from New Hampshire, found herself able to re-enter the world of pageantry after the age cap was lifted. Embracing the inclusivity of the Miss USA organization, MonaLesa, a Muslim Hijabi woman, appreciates the diversity and acceptance of women from all backgrounds and identities.

Hannah Klein, representing Ohio, shared her surprise at the strict daily schedule and restrictions placed on contestants during the pageant. Despite the constraints, she finds ways to stay connected with loved ones, emphasizing the importance of support during the intense competition.

Issha Rose Mata, Miss Hawaii USA, highlighted how the rule change allowing married women to compete influenced her personal life. By postponing her engagement until after the rule change, Issha now confidently embraces her relationship while pursuing her pageant career, showcasing the impact of these rule adjustments on contestants’ personal lives. These revelations from Miss USA contestants shed light on the evolving landscape of beauty pageants and the significant impact of rule changes on participants.

In conclusion, the Miss USA contestants’ experiences reflect the ongoing evolution of beauty pageants and the importance of adapting rules to promote inclusivity and diversity. As the 2025 Miss USA pageant approaches, these insights offer a glimpse into the changing norms within the pageant industry and the resilience of women navigating these transformations.