Nicki Minaj Praises President Trump and Vice President JD Vance at Conservative Political Event, Prompting Backlash, Questions
PHOENIX — Hip-hop star Nicki Minaj stunned fans and political observers after making an unannounced appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, where she voiced support for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance and waded deeply into conservative political themes.
Minaj joined Erika Kirk, the group’s chief executive and widow of founder Charlie Kirk, for a wide-ranging onstage conversation that moved from politics to faith and cultural debates. At several points, she praised Trump and Vance as symbols of resilience and framed their appeal around people who feel overlooked or dismissed by political institutions and the media.
The moment represented one of Minaj’s clearest public alignments with the Trump-Vance administration, building on months of comments that hinted at growing sympathy for conservative positions but had not previously involved appearing on a major right-leaning stage.
Minaj used the platform to press broader themes that have become increasingly central to her commentary. She highlighted global incidents of religious persecution, citing violence against Christians in Nigeria, and argued that Western governments have not responded forcefully enough. She also revisited concerns she raised earlier this year during a panel on religious freedom.
She then sharply criticized policies in California, singling out Gov. Gavin Newsom and raising objections to measures involving transgender youth and parental rights. Minaj framed the remarks as an unwillingness to stay silent on issues she views as affecting families and faith communities, even if doing so places her at odds with fellow artists and parts of the entertainment world.
A Jarring “Assassin” Slip
One of the most replayed moments of the night came when Minaj, while complimenting Vance’s debating style, referred to him as “the assassin.” The phrase, which she has used metaphorically in the past, landed awkwardly in a room still grappling with the September assassination of Charlie Kirk at a Turning Point event.
Minaj immediately covered her mouth and paused as the audience reacted. Erika Kirk stepped in to steady the conversation, reassuring the crowd and acknowledging that Minaj’s words were meant figuratively. The program then continued with little interruption.
Instagram Disappears Amid Criticism
In the days following AmericaFest, Minaj’s Instagram account vanished, prompting speculation across entertainment media and fan communities. Her page appeared to go offline around December 24–25, coinciding with intensified criticism of her remarks and growing debate about her political positioning.
Coverage linked the disappearance to waves of negative comments and reported follower losses. Minaj has not publicly explained the move, but she has remained active on X, sharing clips from the event and signaling continued support for Trump and Vance.
Celebrity and Industry Pushback
The appearance quickly sparked reaction across the music and comedy worlds.
Singer Lizzo suggested that celebrity political realignment often comes with financial incentives, remarking that “there is money behind everything” while reflecting on Minaj’s comments. Comedian D.L. Hughley went further, arguing that Minaj represents much of what Turning Point historically criticized, calling the partnership transactional and out of step with the movement’s stated values.
Some analysts have framed the moment as part of a longer evolution rather than a sudden break, noting that Minaj has increasingly echoed conservative language on culture, religion, and personal responsibility in recent years.
LGBTQ+ Fans Voice Frustration
The most immediate backlash surfaced among parts of Minaj’s LGBTQ+ fan base, long considered central to her popularity. Online discussions and social media exchanges reflected anger and disappointment over her decision to appear at an organization widely criticized by LGBTQ+ advocates.
Reports have also circulated claiming some LGBTQ-owned clubs and DJs have scaled back her music in recent weeks. These accounts remain largely anecdotal, but they underscore a growing sense of unease within nightlife communities where Minaj’s music has long been a staple.
A High-Stakes Political Gamble
Minaj, 43, has weathered controversies and social-media battles before. But the AmericaFest appearance carries broader implications at a time when celebrity political endorsements can reshape fan loyalty, industry relationships, and brand partnerships.
For Turning Point USA and the Trump-Vance campaign, her support offers cultural reach and visibility among younger audiences. For Minaj, it is a highly public bet that aligning herself with religious liberty themes and conservative cultural critiques will deepen her authenticity – even if doing so risks alienating loyal fans.
Whether that gamble pays off will become clearer in the months ahead, as audiences respond at concerts, on radio, and across streaming platforms, and as Minaj decides whether to re-emerge on Instagram or continue using X as her primary megaphone. For now, her AmericaFest appearance has cemented her status as one of the most polarizing figures at the crossroads of pop culture and American politics.
Key Facts and Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Turning Point USA “AmericaFest” |
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Date of Appearance | December 21, 2025 |
| Who Appeared | Nicki Minaj, in a surprise onstage conversation with Erika Kirk |
| Main Political Theme | Praise for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance |
| Other Issues Discussed | Religious persecution and global religious freedom |
| State Policy Criticism | Sharp criticism of California politics and parental-rights issues |
| Viral Moment | Accidentally referred to JD Vance as “the assassin,” then quickly paused and corrected |
| Aftermath on Social Media | Instagram account disappeared days later; remained active on X (Twitter) |
| Public Reaction | Mix of backlash and debate across fans, LGBTQ+ communities, entertainers, and commentators |
| Why It Matters | Signals one of Minaj’s clearest political shifts and raises questions about celebrity influence in politics |
Top Q & A
Q: Why was Nicki Minaj at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest?
A: She appeared as a surprise guest for an onstage conversation. According to event coverage, organizers framed the discussion around faith, culture, and politics, while Minaj used the opportunity to speak openly about issues she says matter to her.
Q: What did she say about Donald Trump and JD Vance?
A: Minaj praised both men, describing Trump as resilient and Vance as an effective political communicator. Her remarks signaled one of her clearest public alignments with the Trump-Vance ticket to date.
Q: Why did her comments create controversy?
A: Critics argue her appearance with a conservative organization conflicts with positions held by many fans, especially LGBTQ+ supporters. Others say celebrity political endorsements can shape narratives in ways that feel polarizing.
Q: What was the “assassin” moment everyone talked about?
A: While complimenting Vance’s debate performances, Minaj called him “the assassin.” The phrase landed awkwardly because of the earlier assassination of Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk. She quickly paused, appeared apologetic, and the conversation continued.
Q: Did she delete her Instagram because of backlash?
A: Her Instagram account disappeared shortly after the event, but Minaj has not offered a detailed explanation. She remains active on X, where she has continued engaging with supporters.
Q: How did other celebrities react?
A: Some entertainers criticized the appearance, questioning motives and message. Others framed it as part of a broader conversation about the growing intersection of celebrity culture and political movements.
Q: How are fans responding?
A: Reactions are mixed. Some supporters back her right to speak freely, while others – including LGBTQ+ fans – say the appearance felt like a betrayal.
Q: What happens next?
A: Observers are watching whether the move affects streaming, live shows, brand relationships, and how prominently Minaj continues to discuss politics going forward.
