Miss USA Chairman Thom Brodeur announced the decision but did not provide specific details about the conduct that led to Boltinhouse losing the crown.
In a statement, Brodeur said the organization does not tolerate “racism, homophobia, transphobia” or language that denies anyone their dignity. He said the conduct in question occurred over an extended period.
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Boltinhouse won the North Carolina title only weeks ago and had been scheduled to represent the state at the 75th annual Miss USA competition on Aug. 27.
Myla Hadley, who finished as the first runner-up in the state competition, will now take over the title and represent North Carolina at the national pageant.
Brodeur said the decision was made following consultations with Boltinhouse, her state directors and the Miss USA organization. He emphasized that while the organization maintains a zero-tolerance approach to violations of its standards, accountability should not mean dehumanizing the person involved.
“There is a young woman at the center of this,” Brodeur said, adding that Boltinhouse has faced intense public scrutiny while still having a family, future and life beyond the controversy.
Brodeur also said Boltinhouse plans to release her own statement addressing the situation. He said he had reviewed the statement and believed it demonstrated ownership, accountability and an apology.
“I believe people can change,” Brodeur said, while emphasizing that meaningful change must be demonstrated through conduct over time rather than words alone.
A Blaize Productions, the state pageant organizer, also confirmed the decision following what it described as a thorough review of recently surfaced information. The organization did not provide further details about the allegations.
The state organizer asked supporters and the public to treat both Boltinhouse and Hadley with kindness and respect during the transition.
Hadley acknowledged the sudden change on social media and said she understood the significance of the title and the responsibility of representing North Carolina at Miss USA.
Although she described the situation as a short turnaround, Hadley said she had been preparing for the national competition since first participating in the organization and was ready to represent the state.
The Miss USA competition is scheduled to take place on Aug. 27, with Hadley now set to compete for North Carolina.
