Former Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse says she believes her conservative Christian values played a role in being stripped of her crown. The Miss USA Organization announced the decision on August 5, citing conduct that occurred over an extended period of time, but did not specify the nature of the conduct.

Background

Boltinhouse won the state title just weeks before the decision and was set to represent North Carolina at the 75th annual Miss USA pageant on August 27. She called losing the title a “blessing in disguise” and expressed her pride in her faith and conservative values.

Boltinhouse said a confidentiality agreement prevents her from discussing the circumstances that led to her losing the title, but she believes her political and religious views were a factor. “I believe and think I was stripped from my title because of my political stance and my belief system as a conservative Christian woman,” she said.

Response

Despite losing her crown, Boltinhouse said she forgives the organization and hopes other women will view her experience as encouragement to stand by their beliefs. Myla Hadley, the first runner-up in the state competition, will represent North Carolina at the national pageant.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.