Former Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse, who lost her title amid allegations of “racism” and “homophobia,” is expected to take legal action against pageant organizers, her attorney announced on Monday.
North Carolina attorney Patrick Mincey posted a video on Instagram, announcing that he is representing Boltinhouse, claiming she was “targeted because of her Christian faith and conservative political views.”
Boltinhouse lost her title weeks before the Miss USA national competition, which is scheduled for Aug. 24-27. She was replaced by runner-up Myla Hadley.
The Pageant’s Response
In announcing the decision to dethrone Boltinhouse, Miss USA condemned “racism, homophobia and transphobia,” citing “conduct” over years that violated its policies.
Thom Brodeur, the chairman and CEO of Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, did not specify the alleged conduct but wrote that it “was not a single moment,” but “conduct over an extended period of time” that does not reflect the standards of the Miss USA organization.
“The Miss USA organization does not tolerate racism, homophobia, transphobia, nor language that strips any person of their dignity, whoever they are,” he wrote.
Boltinhouse’s Claims
In an interview with the Carolina Journal, Boltinhouse claimed that her title was “ripped” from her due to her “conservative Christian” beliefs. Asked if there is room for conservatives in Miss USA and if her support for President Donald Trump could have led to her losing the title, Boltinhouse told the journal, “I don’t know.”
She indicated she signed an NDA so she cannot share everything, but added, “I think and believe that my title was ripped from me because of my beliefs.”
The Legal Action
Mincey said his firm is investigating the circumstances that led to Boltinhouse losing her title. “Brittany Boltinhouse earned her crown. She earned the respect and admiration of millions who support her. And one thing is certain: Brittany Boltinhouse will not be canceled,” he said.
It is unclear if the expected legal action will be taken against Miss USA or state pageant organizer A Blaize Productions.
The Bottom Line
Former Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse, who was dethroned over allegations of “racism” and “homophobia,” plans to take legal action against pageant organizers. Her attorney claims she was “targeted because of her Christian faith and conservative political views.” Miss USA condemned “racism, homophobia and transphobia” and cited “conduct over an extended period of time.” Boltinhouse says her title was “ripped” from her because of her beliefs.
