The Donald's pageant is a soap opera

A 20-year-old Miss New Jersey USA, has resigned because she is pregnant, according to reports.

Ashley Harder told a US newspaper she voluntarily stepped down because it is against pageant rules to compete while pregnant.

Both the pageant and the runner-up for 2007 Miss New Jersey USA confirmed today that the reins have changed hands. Erin Abrahamson, 23, said pageant officials called her on Friday to let her know she would be assuming the title.

"Whatever made her resign, I wish her lots of luck and hope she's OK," Abrahamson said of Harder, adding that pageant officials did not tell her why she would be taking over.

Harder's resignation is the latest to hit the pageant, owned by tycoon Donald Trump.