Miss USA contestants were asked difficult questions in video interviews taped ahead of the pageant, reported on Friday, 17th June, 2011.
The contestants were asked whether they believe evolution should be taught in schools and if they would pose for nude photographs, according to reports.
President of the Miss Universe Organization Paula Shugart, which also runs Miss USA, was quoted saying that these topics are very relevant and in the news.
Keith Lewis, executive state pageant director for California, New Hampshire and New York reportedly said that the contestants were scared to death.
Girls are concerned that there is a right or wrong answer. Polarising questions often create a situation where you suffer, if you agree, and if you do not. Keith Lewis reportedly told Fox News.
The pageant officials are intimidating contestants into answering questions a certain way that are deemed politically correct, while discriminating against their own belief and opinions. The Miss USA Organization is choosing topics that are not only controversial, but intimidating, Angie Meyer, former Miss USA publicist reportedly said.
Christian Post reporter Stephanie Samuel said that these questions together with a new online voting system, have some worried that this year’s Miss USA pageant queens may feel pressured to compromise their beliefs in order to win the crown.
Miss USA Pageant finals will be held at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on 19th June, 2011, 9pm ET.
Watch the video interviews of the Miss USA candidates below.
