Justus Kelley has made history as the first ever married woman and mother to become Miss USA 2026.
Miss USA announced the winner of the 75th Diamond Anniversary edition of the national pageant on Thursday, August 27, at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, People reported.
The 2026 pageant was themed “75 Years of Icons” to mark the historic year. 50 contestants participated for the title that was won by 31-year-old Justus Kelley.
"For 75 years, the organization has showcased dynamic, accomplished women who reflect the confidence, diversity, and ambition of modern America," the website reads.
Kelley, who also won Miss Virginia USA 2026, was crowned by last year’s winner Audrey Eckert.
She is now the fifth Miss Virginia to win the national crown and will head to San Juan, Puerto Rico, in November to compete for the Miss Universe title.
Justus Kelley’s ‘huge honour’
In the final question, judges asked Kelley if she had become the 75th Miss USA and what her year would say about women in America today.
She replied, “We are here tonight celebrating the 75th anniversary of Miss USA, but we also have an opportunity to make history tonight. I'm 31 years old, I'm married to my college sweetheart of nine years, and we are proud foster parents of two adorable siblings that absolutely have my heart."
“What my year as Miss USA would mean and look like is no longer questioning if we have to choose between our ambitious careers, our families, and our wildest dreams. I'm standing on this stage embracing every part of who I am, and I believe that I can be your next Miss USA," she continued.
In a press conference after a historic win, she called it a “huge honor," noting that she has a big responsibility, as she was trusted to become first mother and marry a woman to win the title, but it will not be the last.
Miss USA 2026 prize money
This year’s Miss USA will walk away with a prize package valued at over $685,000, which includes a $150,000 salary, a Range Rover, a one-year lease in a luxury Miami apartment residence, a Westgate Vacation Home Club, a $30,000 Miss Universe wardrobe, and more.
