Gretchen Carlson EXITS As 'Miss America' Chair

Gretchen Carlson

Gretchen Carlson stepped down as board chairwoman of Miss America — following reports of behind-the-scenes feuds over the elimination of the pageant’s swimsuit competition.

According to The NY Post, the former Miss America was part of the leadership group that cut the swimsuit competition, prompting some state pageants to call for her and the rest of the board to step down.

Reps from nearly two dozen state pageants signed a petition last July calling for the board’s resignations, while 30 former Miss Americas signed their own letter expressing their full support of Carlson.

Carlson released a statement saying she was “extremely proud of the work we have collectively done.”

“With a promising network partnership, the time is ideal to give new leadership the opportunity to move forward with what has been accomplished,” Carlson said. “Miss America will always be a part of who I am and I will enthusiastically watch as the organization continues to grow and succeed.”

Carlson will be replaced by Shantel Krebs, a former South Dakota secretary of state, and remain as an adviser to the board during the transition.