Nicki Minaj, the Trinidadian-born rapper, ignited a political firestorm after expressing her admiration for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance while simultaneously taking a jab at California Governor Gavin Newsom. Her statements, made during a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest in Phoenix, Arizona on Sunday, December 21, 2025, quickly reverberated across social media and news outlets, solidifying her increasingly vocal political stance.
Minaj, known for hits like "Super Freaky Girl" and "Anaconda," addressed the crowd at the event, which was held in memory of the late activist Charlie Kirk. Interviewed by Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk's widow, Minaj discussed her newfound support for Trump, a figure she had previously criticized. She also spoke about her efforts to denounce violence against Christians in Nigeria.
"This administration is full of people with heart and soul, and they make me proud of them," Minaj declared, adding that Trump and Vance possess an "uncanny ability to be someone that you relate to". She lauded Trump for giving people hope that "there's a chance to beat the bad guys, and to win, and to do it with your head held high, and your integrity intact". She also praised Vance, calling him "an assassin" and "quick as a computer", further stating that he is "the best blend I've ever seen of us & them".
Minaj didn't hold back when it came to California Governor Gavin Newsom, referring to him as "New-scum," a nickname popularized by Trump. When asked by Erika Kirk if she had anything to say to Newsom, Minaj responded, "Dear Newscum, we don't have a problem cleaning up the scum if we have to. Please, tread lightly".
Minaj's alignment with Trump and Vance marks a significant shift from her previous political views. In 2018, she condemned Trump's zero-tolerance immigration policy, sharing her own story of arriving in the U.S. as a child and describing herself as an "illegal immigrant". However, during her appearance at AmericaFest, Minaj stated, "it's OK to change your mind". She said she was tired of being "pushed around," and that speaking your mind with different ideas is controversial because “people are no longer using their minds”.
Her recent embrace of conservative figures has reportedly cost her some celebrity followers, including Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter. Despite any potential backlash, Minaj seems unfazed. "I didn't notice," she said when asked about the criticism she's receiving from the entertainment industry for supporting Trump. "We don't even think about them. We're too busy building, right?".
Minaj's transformation into a prominent voice in conservative circles has sparked considerable debate, highlighting the increasing intersection of politics and pop culture. While her views may be controversial, they have undoubtedly ignited a new level of engagement and discussion within her fanbase and beyond.
