Miss Teen USA Abdicates Throne: Not long after Miss USA announced her resignation, Miss Teen USA followed suit. After months of contemplation, UmaSofia Srivastava resigned on Wednesday, taking to Instagram to explain her decision. She cited a conflict between her own beliefs and the organization’s goals.

After Srivastava won the state crown for New Jersey, she thanked her family, the state directors, the sister queens, and the supporters who had supported her on. As a first-generation Mexican-Indian American, she reflected on the rewarding experience of representing her state on a national stage.

Srivastava has pledged to keep fighting for acceptance and education, even if she has resigned, stressing that this is her life’s work. At the end of her speech, she expressed her gratitude to her supporters and reiterated her dedication to being genuine.

Following Srivastava’s departure, Miss Teen USA released a statement expressing their understanding and approval of her choice, with the titleholders’ welfare highlighted as the organization’s foremost concern.

Right on the heels of Miss USA Noelia Voigt’s resignation earlier this week—she cited a need to focus on her mental health—comes Srivastava’s departure. A concealed message in Voigt’s resignation announcement ignited suspicion, which in turn led to a broader discussion regarding her reasons for leaving.