“Bella Bautista,” a 22-year-old transgender biological male, has withdrawn his bid to compete in the Miss Georgia USA pageant, citing a misalignment of values.
Bautista announced his withdrawal in a post on Instagram, in which he also announced that he is relinquishing the Miss Buckhead USA 2025 title that he currently holds.
“With a heavy heart, I am officially relinquishing my title as Miss Buckhead USA 2025,” Bautista wrote. “When I joined this pageant, I did so with the hope of breaking barriers, inspiring others, and showing that representation matters. However, after deep reflection, I have come to the decision that the organization’s affiliations and actions no longer align with my personal values and my mission for inclusivity and a world free of discrimination.”
He continued, “The decision was not easy, especially knowing how many people were excited to see me take the stage at Miss Georgia USA. It breaks my heart that this moment won’t come to fruition, but I remain committed to my purpose. I entered this competition to show that transgender women belong, that we are deserving of space, celebration, and the chance to pursue our dreams — nothing about that has changed.”
Bautista said he could not elaborate further due to “ongoing legal proceedings.”
“I am unable to share further details at this time. But know this: the truth will unfold and justice will be served soon,” he wrote.
The Miss Georgia USA pageant is part of the Miss USA system, a preliminary competition for the Miss Universe pageant.
The Miss Universe organization has allowed transgender biological male contestants since 2012, following a policy change prompted by the initial disqualification of a transgender contestant in the Miss Universe Canada pageant.
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