Reigning Miss United States of America, Noelia Voigt, has stepped down from her title, less than a year after winning the competition, citing mental health reasons.
Ms. Voigt, who won the annual competition in September 2023, stated, “I believe in making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health.”
The Miss USA organization has expressed support for her decision and announced plans to name a successor.
The 24-year-old Venezuelan-American from Utah expressed her hope to “continue to inspire others” as she embarks on “a new chapter” in life.
“Prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain,” she said.
Ms. Voigt expressed gratitude for her seven months as Miss USA, describing it as a time that provided her with a “platform… to make a difference” and allowed her to fulfill a “lifelong dream” while meeting “people all over the world.”
The Miss USA organization thanked Ms. Voigt and emphasized on Instagram that “the well-being of our titleholders is a top priority.”
Plans for the “transition of responsibilities to a successor” are currently under review by the organization.
Savannah Gankiewicz of Hawaii was the runner-up to Ms. Voigt in last year’s competition.
