Rapper Nicki Minaj made an unexpected appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest 2025 in Phoenix on Sunday, where she openly praised President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, calling both men “role models” for young Americans. The surprise moment came during a memorial segment honoring late activist Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated in September.
Minaj sat down with Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, for a wide-ranging discussion about her evolving political views, her public support for Trump, and her recent comments condemning violence against Christians in Nigeria. The Grammy-nominated artist’s shift toward the MAGA movement has drawn significant attention, given her previously inconsistent political stance and her past criticism of Trump.
Minaj Declares Admiration for Trump and Vance
During the conversation, Minaj praised the current administration, saying the president and vice president “make me proud,” and described both men as unusually relatable public figures. She also took a jab at California Gov. Gavin Newsom, whom she mockingly referred to as “New-scum,” echoing Trump’s own phrasing.
However, one moment drew audible murmurs from the crowd. In praising Vance’s political sharpness, Minaj referred to him as an “assassin,” then immediately paused as if reconsidering her word choice. Erika Kirk appeared emotional but quickly brushed aside the awkwardness, telling the audience she admired Minaj’s candor.
A Shift Toward MAGA Politics
Minaj’s appearance at the conservative gathering deepens her alignment with the MAGA movement. Last month, she reposted one of Trump’s Truth Social messages criticizing Nigeria’s government over its handling of Christian persecution — a post that Minaj said filled her with “deep gratitude” for being able to worship freely in the U.S.
She was later invited to speak at a United Nations mission event alongside Ambassador Mike Waltz and several faith leaders. On Sunday, Minaj again spoke about strengthening religious freedom and said she was tired of feeling “pushed around” for holding unconventional views in the entertainment industry.
“People are no longer using their minds,” she said, thanking Kirk for describing her as courageous despite backlash she says she hasn’t noticed. The two women ended the conversation by joking that they were among “the cool kids.”
From Critic to Supporter
Minaj’s embrace of Trump marks a dramatic shift from 2018, when she condemned his immigration policies and revealed her own story of arriving to the United States as an undocumented child. Reflecting on her past comments, she told the audience, “It’s OK to change your mind.”
The Trinidadian-born rapper, famous for chart-topping hits like “Anaconda,” “Super Freaky Girl” and “Starships,” has been nominated for 12 Grammy Awards and remains one of the most widely recognized names in global pop culture. Her move toward conservative politics — and her public endorsement of Trump and Vance — could signal a new phase in her public identity. For more political and entertainment updates, stay connected with InvestRecords.com.
