Nicki Minaj stunned audiences with a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, praising Donald Trump and JD Vance and signaling a major political shift.
Rapper Nicki Minaj sparked widespread attention on Sunday after making an unexpected appearance at a major conservative gathering in Arizona, where she openly praised former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, calling them “role models” for young men.
Minaj took the stage at Turning Point USA’s flagship AmericaFest convention, an annual event that draws thousands of conservative activists, students, and political leaders. This year’s gathering also served as a memorial for the organization’s late founder, Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated earlier this year.
A Conversation That Signaled a Political Shift
During the event, Minaj was interviewed by Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow, who has since stepped into a leadership role within Turning Point USA. The discussion focused on Minaj’s evolving political views, her recent support for Trump, and her outspoken comments regarding violence against Christians in Nigeria.
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Minaj’s appearance marked a striking turn for the Grammy-nominated artist, who has previously criticized Trump and whose political identity had long been viewed as unpredictable. Standing before a crowd of conservative supporters, Minaj acknowledged her change in perspective and emphasized that growth sometimes means rethinking past positions.
“It’s OK to change your mind,” she said on stage, drawing applause from the audience.
Praise for Trump and JD Vance
Minaj spoke warmly about both Trump and Vance, describing them as leaders with authenticity and emotional intelligence. She said the current administration was filled with people who lead with “heart and soul,” adding that both Trump and Vance possess a rare ability to connect with everyday Americans.
“Our vice president, he makes me… well, I love both of them,” Minaj said. “They have an uncanny ability to be someone you can relate to.”
Her remarks were particularly notable given her past opposition to Trump, including her vocal criticism of his immigration policies during his first term.
Mocking Gavin Newsom and 2028 Speculation
Minaj also took aim at California Gov. Gavin Newsom, mocking him with the nickname “New-scum,” a label popularized by Trump. Newsom, a Democrat widely viewed as a potential 2028 presidential contender, has frequently clashed with conservative figures, making Minaj’s comments especially resonant with the AmericaFest crowd.
Meanwhile, Erika Kirk publicly expressed admiration for JD Vance and endorsed him during the discussion, despite the vice president not indicating whether he plans to run for president in the future.
An Awkward Moment on Stage
One of the most talked-about moments of the appearance came when Minaj attempted to praise Vance’s political effectiveness but described him as an “assassin.” Realizing the sensitivity of the term—particularly given Charlie Kirk’s assassination—Minaj paused mid-sentence, visibly uncomfortable.
As the crowd murmured and Erika Kirk appeared emotional, Minaj covered her mouth in regret. Kirk quickly moved to ease the tension.
“If the internet wants to clip it, who cares? I love this woman,” Kirk said, drawing supportive applause and helping defuse the moment.
Speaking Out on Nigeria and Religious Violence
Minaj’s recent alignment with conservative figures gained momentum last month after she shared a message from Trump on Truth Social, in which he discussed possible sanctions against Nigeria over the persecution of Christians.
The rapper said the post left her feeling grateful to live in a country where religious freedom is protected. Her comments led to an invitation to participate in a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nations alongside Mike Waltz and several faith leaders.
While experts caution that Nigeria’s violence stems from complex political and ethnic factors, Minaj framed her comments as a moral response rather than a policy prescription.
“We’re the Cool Kids”
Minaj told the audience she was tired of being “pushed around” for expressing opinions that diverge from mainstream entertainment industry views. She argued that open debate has become controversial because people are “no longer using their minds.”
Erika Kirk thanked Minaj for what she described as courage in the face of industry backlash. Minaj brushed off criticism with confidence.
“I didn’t notice,” she said. “We don’t even think about them.”
“We don’t have time to,” Kirk added. “We’re too busy building.”
“We’re the cool kids,” Minaj replied, smiling.
A Career Marked by Reinvention
Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Minaj rose to global fame with chart-topping hits like “Super Freaky Girl,” “Anaconda,” and “Starships.” Over the course of her career, she has earned 12 Grammy nominations and built one of the most devoted fan bases in modern music.
In 2018, Minaj was among several celebrities who condemned Trump’s zero-tolerance immigration policy, which separated thousands of children from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border. At the time, she shared her own story of immigrating to the United States at age five, describing herself as an “illegal immigrant” and expressing deep concern for affected families.
Her appearance at AmericaFest underscores just how dramatically her public stance has evolved—and highlights the growing intersection of celebrity culture and American politics.
As reactions continue to ripple across social media and political circles, one thing is clear: Nicki Minaj’s voice, whether celebrated or criticized, remains impossible to ignore.