Global rap icon Nicki Minaj made an unexpected appearance on Sunday at a major conservative gathering in Arizona, where she publicly praised former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, describing them as positive role models for young men.
Minaj attended AmericaFest, the flagship annual convention organised by Turning Point USA, which this year included a memorial tribute to the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk. She was interviewed on stage by Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow and current leader of the organisation, in a wide-ranging conversation that touched on politics, faith and free expression.
During the discussion, Minaj explained her growing support for Trump, marking a notable shift from her earlier public criticism of him. She also spoke about her outspoken condemnation of violence against Christians in Nigeria, a stance that recently drew international attention.
Her presence at the event generated significant interest, given her complicated political history and previous opposition to Trump-era policies. However, her appearance at AmericaFest appears to further cement her alignment with the Make America Great Again movement and conservative youth activism.
On stage, Minaj took a swipe at California Governor Gavin Newsom, echoing a nickname previously used by Trump. Newsom, a Democrat, is widely viewed as a potential presidential contender in 2028.
Expressing admiration for both Trump and Vice President Vance, Minaj said the current administration was filled with leaders who possess “heart and soul,” adding that they make her proud. She described both men as relatable figures with a rare ability to connect with ordinary people.
The event briefly turned tense when Minaj, while attempting to compliment Vance’s political effectiveness, used the word “assassin,” quickly realising the sensitivity of the remark given the tragic death of Charlie Kirk. The rapper paused mid-sentence as the audience reacted, while Erika Kirk appeared emotional. Minaj covered her mouth in visible regret before the moment passed.
Erika Kirk later brushed off the incident, expressing affection for Minaj and reassuring the crowd. Kirk’s husband was assassinated in September, a loss that deeply shaped the tone of the gathering.
Minaj’s political evolution has also included vocal concern about religious persecution abroad. Last month, she shared a statement by Trump suggesting possible sanctions against Nigeria over the treatment of Christians, saying the message made her grateful for the freedom of worship enjoyed in the United States. That post later led to her participation in a panel discussion at the U.S. mission to the United Nations alongside Ambassador Mike Waltz and faith leaders.
Addressing criticism she has faced from the entertainment industry, Minaj said she was no longer willing to be silenced or pressured into conformity. She argued that expressing independent views has become controversial because people have stopped thinking critically.
Erika Kirk praised Minaj for her courage, noting the backlash she has faced for her political stance. Minaj responded dismissively, saying she does not pay attention to critics, a sentiment Kirk echoed by saying their focus was on “building.”
“We’re the cool kids,” Minaj quipped, drawing cheers from the audience.
Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Minaj rose to global fame with hits such as Super Freaky Girl, Anaconda and Starships, and has received 12 Grammy nominations over her career.
In contrast to her current stance, Minaj was among several celebrities who strongly condemned Trump’s zero-tolerance immigration policy in 2018. At the time, she described herself as having entered the U.S. as a child without legal documentation and pleaded publicly for an end to family separations at the southern border.
Reflecting on that shift during her AmericaFest appearance, Minaj defended her evolution, saying there is nothing wrong with reassessing one’s beliefs.
“It’s OK to change your mind,” she said.
