Miss America 2012 winner Laura Kaeppeler PHOTOS

The 2012 Miss America was crowned Saturday night (Jan. 14) in Las Vegas - Miss Wisconsin Laura Kaeppeler. She wore perhaps the most elegant evening gown, looking simple and chic in black with a lace bodice. She compared the top of her dress to Kate Middleton's wedding dress.

• Miss America 2012 winner  Laura Kaeppeler PHOTOS

For her talent, this 23-year-old from Kenosha, WI sang an Italian aria, with an absolutely gorgeous operatic voice. She also looked stunning in a red dress. And for her question in the Q&A portion, she was asked if Miss Americas should voice their political views. Laura gave a very diplomatic answer about how Miss America represents everyone and therefore should not thrust her views onto the public.

She also acts as a mentor to children with incarcerated parents, since she was one of those herself. You can see her below in a video that she made for the America's Choice vote. It's her Top 10 reasons why she should be Miss America and it's pretty cute. Congratulations to Laura Kaeppeler!For her interview question, Kaeppeler was asked whether beauty queens should discuss their political stance.

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