When Cassie Donegan was crowned Miss America , she never imagined her victory would be quickly overshadowed by a wave of criticism targeting her appearance.

Several users online quickly flooded social media with harsh critiques of Donegan’s pageant makeup. They argued that the 28-year-old’s look appeared heavy and harsh under the glaring stage lights. Some even claimed runner-up Sadie Schiermeyer, representing Texas, should have won instead.

Donegan, who represented New York at the competition on Sept. 7 in Orlando, Florida, told Fox News Digital she’s not letting the hateful words get under her skin.

“The reality is, when something big happens like this, there are going to be many opinions,” she said.

“Everyone has the right to their own opinion, especially in such a public forum li

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