Nicki Minaj just made her most explicit political statement yet, appearing on stage at one of conservatism’s biggest events to praise Donald Trump and JD Vance.
The Grammy-nominated rapper sat down with Erika Kirk, widow of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, at the organization’s AmericaFest convention on Sunday.
Her transformation from Trump critic to apparent MAGA supporter has stunned many, especially given her 2018 condemnation of his immigration policies.
But Minaj made clear she has no regrets about her political evolution—and she’s not worried about Hollywood’s reaction.
From Fierce Critic to Passionate Supporter
The shift represents a dramatic turnaround for the Trinidadian-born artist. In 2018, Minaj joined numerous celebrities condemning Trump’s zero-tolerance immigration policy that separated over 5,000 children from their families at the Mexico border.
She shared her own immigration story then, describing arriving in the United States at age five as what she called an “illegal immigrant.”
This is so scary to me. Please stop this. Can you try to imagine the terror & panic these kids feel right now?
Fast forward to 2024, and Minaj’s tone has completely changed. During Sunday’s interview at Turning Point USA’s flagship event, she defended her new position with a simple statement.
It’s OK to change your mind.
Praising Trump and Vance With Enthusiasm
Minaj didn’t hold back her admiration for the current administration during her appearance. She expressed particular fondness for both Trump and Vice President JD Vance, whom Erika Kirk has endorsed despite him not declaring presidential ambitions.
This administration is full of people with heart and soul, and they make me proud of them. Our vice president, he makes me … well, I love both of them. Both of them have a very uncanny ability to be someone that you relate to.
The rapper even adopted Trump’s nickname for California Governor Gavin Newsom, calling him “New-scum” during the conversation. Newsom, considered a potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidate, has been a frequent Trump target.
An Awkward Moment on Stage
While attempting to compliment Vance’s political abilities, Minaj created an uncomfortable moment by describing him as an “assassin.” She immediately paused, seemingly recognizing her poor word choice.
Erika Kirk appeared to wipe tears from her eyes as Minaj covered her mouth. The crowd murmured, clearly aware of the sensitivity given Charlie Kirk’s assassination in September, which left Erika Kirk to take over leadership of Turning Point USA.
Kirk quickly defused the tension, showing support for the rapper despite the gaffe.
If the internet wants to clip it, who cares? I love this woman.
Speaking Out on Christian Persecution in Nigeria
Minaj’s political engagement extends beyond domestic issues. Last month, she shared Trump’s Truth Social post about potential sanctions against Nigeria over what he described as government failure to stop Christian persecution in the West African nation.
Experts and Nigerian residents note that violence in the country has complex roots that aren’t easily explained. Nevertheless, Minaj expressed deep appreciation for religious freedom in America.
Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude. We live in a country where we can freely worship God.
Her advocacy led to an invitation to speak at a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nations alongside U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz and faith leaders—a remarkable platform for someone primarily known for hits like “Super Freaky Girl,” “Anaconda,” and “Starships.”
Defying Hollywood Backlash
Kirk thanked Minaj for being “courageous” despite backlash from the entertainment industry for supporting Trump. But the 12-time Grammy nominee seemed utterly unfazed by any professional consequences.
I didn’t notice. We don’t even think about them.
Kirk responded by saying “we don’t have time to. We’re too busy building, right?” Minaj’s reply suggested she views her new political alignment as culturally superior to mainstream entertainment.
We’re the cool kids.
Why Speaking Out Matters to Her Now
Minaj explained her motivation for becoming more politically vocal, framing it as resistance against conformity. She said she was tired of being “pushed around” and suggested that expressing different ideas has become controversial.
According to the rapper, this happens because “people are no longer using their minds.” Her comments reflect a growing sentiment among some public figures that independent thinking has been suppressed by cultural gatekeepers.
Her appearance at AmericaFest—Turning Point USA’s flagship event and one of conservatism’s largest gatherings—may solidify her status as a MAGA supporter despite her political ideology being previously difficult to categorize.
What This Means for Her Career
Whether Minaj’s political transformation will affect her music career remains unclear. With over a decade of success in hip-hop and pop, she’s built a massive following that spans diverse demographics and political beliefs.
Some fans have expressed disappointment at her shift, while others applaud her willingness to speak openly about changing perspectives. Her insistence that “it’s OK to change your mind” may resonate with Americans increasingly tired of rigid political tribalism.
For now, the artist born in Trinidad and raised in Queens seems comfortable in her new role as an outspoken conservative voice—Hollywood’s opinion be damned.