Rapper Nicki Minaj made headlines on December 17, 2025, during her unexpected appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest held in Phoenix, Arizona. In a notable turn of events, she publicly praised former President Donald Trump and current Vice President JD Vance, referring to them as “role models” for young Americans. This surprising moment occurred during a memorial segment dedicated to late activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated in September 2023.
Minaj engaged in an extensive conversation with Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, discussing her evolving political views. She addressed her public support for Trump and her recent comments condemning violence against Christians in Nigeria. This shift in her political stance has drawn significant attention, especially given her previous criticisms of Trump and her inconsistent political affiliations.
Endorsement of Trump and Vance
During the event, Minaj expressed her admiration for the current administration, stating that both Trump and Vance “make me proud.” She characterized them as particularly relatable figures in public life. In a moment that elicited audible reactions from the audience, she lauded Vance’s political acumen, referring to him as an “assassin.” After a brief pause, she seemed to reconsider her word choice, but Erika Kirk quickly deflected any awkwardness, commending Minaj’s honesty.
Minaj’s appearance at the conservative gathering marks a deeper alignment with the MAGA movement. Just last month, she shared one of Trump’s posts on Truth Social, which criticized the Nigerian government for its handling of Christian persecution. Minaj expressed gratitude for the freedom to practice her faith in the United States, further solidifying her connection to conservative values.
A Shift in Political Identity
The rapper also reflected on her experiences in the entertainment industry, voicing frustration about feeling “pushed around” for her unconventional views. “People are no longer using their minds,” she stated, thanking Kirk for recognizing her courage amid the backlash she claims to have faced. Minaj concluded her conversation with a lighthearted note, joking that she and Erika Kirk were among the “cool kids.”
This shift in Minaj’s political leanings is particularly striking when considering her past. In 2018, she openly criticized Trump’s immigration policies, sharing her own story as an undocumented child in the United States. At the event, she articulated her belief that it is acceptable to change one’s mind, stating, “It’s OK to change your mind.”
Known for hits like “Anaconda,” “Super Freaky Girl,” and “Starships,” Minaj has received twelve Grammy nominations and remains a prominent figure in global pop culture. Her recent endorsement of Trump and Vance could signify a transformative phase in her public persona, potentially reshaping her legacy in the entertainment industry.
As Minaj navigates this new political terrain, her supporters and critics alike will be watching closely to see how her identity evolves in the coming years. For ongoing updates on political and entertainment news, readers can visit InvestRecords.com.
