Controversy Surrounding Miss Maryland USA Pageant

A transgender woman named Bailey Anne Kennedy won the title of Miss Maryland USA, causing controversy among some contestants who felt misled and betrayed by the competition organizers. The contestants believe Kennedy's win was influenced by their transgender identification and that the competition was rigged in favor of diversity checkboxes.

Miss Maryland USA crowns first transgender winner

Bailey Anne Kennedy, a transgender woman and the wife of a military officer, won the Miss Maryland USA pageant and will compete in Miss USA. Kennedy hopes to inspire LGBTQ youth and promote diversity. She is active in USO and other military organizations.