Transgender Contestant Bella Bautista Withdraws from Miss Georgia USA Pageant, Citing ‘Misalignment of Values’
ATLANTA, GA — Bella Bautista, a 22-year-old transgender contestant, has announced his withdrawal from the Miss Georgia USA pageant, citing a conflict of values with the organization.
Bautista, who held the title of Miss Buckhead USA 2025, also announced that he is relinquishing his crown, stating that he could no longer align himself with the Miss Georgia USA system.
“With a heavy heart, I am officially relinquishing my title as Miss Buckhead USA 2025,” Bautista wrote in an Instagram post. “When I joined this pageant, I did so with the hope of breaking barriers, inspiring others, and showing that representation matters. However, after deep reflection, I have come to the decision that the organization’s affiliations and actions no longer align with my personal values and my mission for inclusivity and a world free of discrimination.”
Bautista had hoped to compete in the Miss Georgia USA pageant, which serves as a qualifier for Miss USA and ultimately the Miss Universe competition. However, his sudden exit has left many wondering about the nature of the dispute behind the scenes.
Hints at Legal Dispute
In his statement, Bautista suggested that legal action may be forthcoming.
“I am unable to share further details at this time,” he wrote. “But know this: the truth will unfold, and justice will be served soon.”
This vague reference to “ongoing legal proceedings” raises questions about whether Bautista faced discrimination, contractual disputes, or policy conflicts within the Miss Georgia USA organization.
Miss Universe’s Policy on Transgender Contestants
Since 2012, the Miss Universe organization has allowed transgender contestants to compete. This policy change was prompted after a transgender contestant in Miss Universe Canada was initially disqualified, leading to international scrutiny and policy revision.
Despite this, transgender participation in pageants remains a controversial topic, with critics arguing that biological males competing in female pageants undermines the integrity of women’s competitions.
Backlash and Support
Bautista’s withdrawal has drawn mixed reactions online. Some supporters praised his decision to stand by his principles, while critics pointed out that biological differences matter in competitions that celebrate femininity.
Pageant officials have yet to release a statement on Bautista’s exit or address the vague reference to legal action.
While the exact nature of Bautista’s disagreement with Miss Georgia USA remains unclear, it appears that the controversy surrounding transgender inclusion in women’s pageantry is far from over.