Dude, "fitness and figure" is about POLITICS...hence the vague criteria. It's who's blowing who, who has the right "trainer" or the right "management". It's all a bunch of bullshit.
If they want to get rid of women's bodybuilding, they should do so. Nobody's stopping them. The problem for them is that without bodybuilding, fitness and figure are diminished. Bodybuilding and the "hardcore" physiques are the foundation and where the most rabid shmoes/fans of the women's side of the industry are based.
Hmmm, some good food for thought in your post here.
I am sure that some of that stuff makes a difference. BUT, as an actual NPC jdge for many years, I can tell you that it is not some backroom conspiracy based on who knows who, etc.
It is more about who has the best ideal "look" and yes "sex appeal" on stage that day.
Sometimes agirl gets a buzz going around her and she seems to get more attention, etc.
Some of you make this judging thing way more "political" and complicated than it actually is, trust me.
I used to judge the old AAU Mr Ms America as well.
Judging is not science with this clear, precise standard. It is also an art and subjective. We do the best we can to pick the best physique we observe on stage that day, no more, no less.