Nicki Minaj made a surprise appearance on Sunday at a conservative gathering in Arizona, where she praised Donald Trump and JD Vance, calling them role models for young men.
The rapper took the stage at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest convention, an event held in memory of late activist Charlie Kirk. She was interviewed by his widow, Erika Kirk, who now leads the organisation.
During the discussion, Minaj spoke about her growing support for Trump, a sharp shift from her past criticism of the former president. She also addressed her recent comments condemning violence against Christians in Nigeria, a topic she has highlighted on social media.
Minaj’s appearance drew attention because her political views have often been difficult to define. Her presence at AmericaFest, however, marked her clearest alignment yet with the Make America Great Again movement and was widely seen as an endorsement of conservative politics.
She mocked California Governor Gavin Newsom, echoing a nickname popularised by Trump, and praised both Trump and Vance for their ability to connect with ordinary people.
Nicki Minaj declara publicamente seu apoio a Donald Trump e diz que admira o governo do republicano. “Eu tenho o maior respeito e admiração pelo nosso presidente… Essa administração está cheia de pessoas com o coração e alma que me deixam orgulhosa delas”. pic.twitter.com/rkG1ql0zXt
— ARTH (@eolorr) December 21, 2025“This administration is full of people with heart and soul,” Minaj said. “They make me proud. Both of them can be relatable.”
An Awkward Moment on Stage
The appearance included a tense moment when Minaj, while praising Vance, mistakenly referred to him as an “assassin.” The remark drew an immediate reaction from the crowd, and Minaj quickly appeared to regret her wording. Erika Kirk responded by brushing off the moment and expressing her support for the rapper.
Minaj later said she was unconcerned about online backlash and made it clear she stood by her broader message. She told the audience that people should feel free to change their views without fear.
“It’s OK to change your mind,” she said.
In recent weeks, Minaj shared a message from Trump on his social media platform calling for possible sanctions against Nigeria over the treatment of Christians. She said the post made her grateful for religious freedom in the United States. The remarks later led to her participation in a panel at the US mission to the United Nations alongside Mike Waltz and faith leaders.
Nicki Minaj & ANYONE defending her are TRASH. Using Christianity to support Trump, JD Vance, MAGA & Turning Point USA is a disgusting choice. These are the same anti trans bigots she’s riding for. Our existence is NOT up for debate. Fuck their hypocrisy! 🏳️⚧️ pic.twitter.com/qX8HUUAb0e
— Jerome Trammel, MBA (@MrJeromeTrammel) December 21, 2025Minaj said she feels increasingly comfortable speaking openly, even when her views spark controversy. She added that she no longer worries about criticism from the entertainment industry.
Kirk praised Minaj for what she called courage, noting the backlash the artist has faced. Minaj brushed it aside, saying she does not pay attention to critics. She ended the exchange by joking with Kirk that they were “the cool kids.”
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The Trinidadian-born rapper is best known for chart-topping hits such as Super Freaky Girl, Anaconda, and Starships. She has received 12 Grammy nominations during her career.
