Cassie Donegan is speaking out after being criticized for her looks at the recently held Miss America 2026 beauty pageant.
The 28-year-old represented New York and beat out all others to receive the glorious crown and title of Miss America. But just minutes after winning, she received a lot of criticism across the board, and many wondered whether or not she actually deserved the big honor.
Cassie says that she is so proud of her look and her choice of hair, clothing, makeup, and overall styling. She felt that is what made her so beautiful and unique, while slamming trolls who felt otherwise.
Some thought her makeup was just not right, while others didn’t think twice before making fun of her facial expressions.
Donegan also won a $50,000 tuition scholarship as part of her victory reward, along with a crown, sash, and a title. Thanks to her training as an accomplished singer, Donegan also took home an award for her vocal gifts after the Miss America 2026 Talent Competition, adding another $3000 to her tuition money prize.
The win came with so much criticism across the board with expressing nothing but hate, and others voicing thoughts on how other candidates may have been more deserving candidates. But Donegan says that she’s gotten used to people’s negativity, calling it a part of the package that comes with these types of competitions.