Tweets are latest controversy for Miss Universe organization

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Racist language in old tweets from the freshly crowned Miss Teen USA is just the latest controversy for the Miss Universe Organization, which suffered a round of turmoil last year over then-owner Donald Trump's inflammatory comments against Mexicans.

"The language Karlie Hay used is unacceptable at any age and in no way reflects the values of The Miss Universe Organization," pageant officials said in a statement, adding that Hay was "in a different place in her life" when she posted the tweets.

The new owners have taken steps to rebrand the Miss Teen USA pageant, including scrapping the swimsuit competition and replacing it with an athletic wear segment.