Cassie Donegan, the newly crowned Miss America 2026, is speaking out after facing criticism over her pageant makeup.
The 28-year-old, who represented New York and won the national crown on September 7 at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, bested 52 delegates from across the United States. While her victory was met with widespread celebration—including viral reactions from her friends on TikTok—some detractors took to social media to criticize her glam look during the finals.
Addressing the backlash, Donegan shared that she understands negativity often comes with being on a highly visible platform but stressed the importance of choosing positivity.
“Often you do have to just pick and choose what you allow yourself to digest,” she said. “Leaning into those who are lifting me up, loving me, and holding me high has been a really useful tool.”
Still, she admits that harsh comments can sting. “I’m just a normal person. No, I don’t want to hear people ever say anything negative, especially about my appearance.”
Her response reflects the same authenticity that helped secure her crown. During the Q&A round of the competition, Donegan championed the importance of authentic self-expression, whether through piercings, tattoos, or individual style.
“I believe being true to yourself 100 percent is the most important thing you can do. No one has the right to tell you what you can do with your own body. This is your vessel, and you should be able to walk around proudly in it,” she told the cheering audience.
True to her own words, Donegan embraces what she calls her “grandma chic” style—something her siblings lovingly tease her about.
Despite the criticism, the new Miss America is keeping her focus on the overwhelming positivity surrounding her win, while encouraging others to find pride in their individuality.