SHAH ALAM – Rapper Nicki Minaj made an unexpected appearance on Sunday at a conservative gathering in Arizona commemorating the late activist Charlie Kirk.
During the event, she praised President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance as “role models” for young men.
Speaking at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest convention—organised by Erika Kirk, who became chairwoman and Chief Eexecutive Officer (CEO) following her husband’s death in September—Minaj addressed her newfound support for Trump, whom she had criticised in the past.
The 43-year-old artist’s alignment with the Make America Great Again (Maga) movement has drawn significant attention, given her prior political ambiguity.
Her appearance at the flagship event of this influential conservative youth organisation further cements her status as a high-profile supporter.
During her speech, Minaj mocked California Governor Gavin Newsom using the nickname “New-***m,” a term previously popularised by Trump.
She expressed deep admiration for both Trump and Vance, despite the latter not yet confirming a future presidential run.
"This administration is full of people with heart and soul and they make me proud. Our vice president... well, I love both of them.
"Both of them have an uncanny ability to be someone you can relate to,” Minaj said.
Her praise for Vance’s political skills, describing him as an “assassin”, caused a brief, awkward moment when she appeared to regret her word choice.
She paused as Erika Kirk, visibly emotional, wiped away tears. Erika reassured her, saying: “If the internet wants to clip it, who cares? I love this woman."
Last month, Minaj shared a message posted by Trump regarding potential sanctions on Nigeria, noting that the government there is failing to curb the persecution of Christians.
“Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude. We live in a country where we can freely worship God,” she reflected on X (formerly Twitter).
Minaj was also recently invited to speak on a panel at the US Mission to the United Nations alongside US Ambassador Mike Waltz and various faith leaders.
Addressing the backlash she has faced from the entertainment industry, she remained undeterred.
“I’m tired of being pushed around. Sharing different ideas is considered controversial now because people are no longer using their minds," she stated.
When Erika Kirk referenced the criticism from Hollywood, Minaj simply replied: “I didn’t notice.”
“We don’t have time to. We’re too busy building, right?” Kirk added, to which Minaj responded, “We’re cool kids.”