Examining the Public Reversal of Nicki Minaj Concerning Previous Criticisms of Federal Immigration and Border Policies
The global music icon Nicki Minaj stunned both the entertainment and political worlds on Sunday December 21 2025 by making a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest convention in Phoenix Arizona. Joining Erika Kirk on stage the Grammy nominated rapper utilized the platform to express her explicit support for the current administration and its leadership. Minaj’s appearance at the event which served as a memorial for the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk marked a significant departure from her previous public stances. During her interview she praised President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance as role models for young men while emphasizing that her shift in political perspective was a result of her refusal to be pushed around by industry expectations.
The impact of this appearance was felt immediately across social media as the rapper shared her admiration for the heart and soul she perceives within the federal government. Minaj specifically highlighted the relatability of both the President and Vice President noting their ability to connect with everyday Americans despite their high offices. However the event included a moment of high tension when Minaj attempting to praise the political acumen of JD Vance referred to him as an assassin. This choice of words led to a visible pause from Erika Kirk whose husband was assassinated in September. Despite the awkwardness Erika Kirk defended the rapper stating that Minaj’s courage in speaking her mind outweighed any specific verbal missteps.
Reactions from the conservative community have been largely celebratory as they welcome one of the most influential figures in hip hop into the Make America Great Again movement. Turning Point USA leaders described the moment as a turning point for youth engagement suggesting that Minaj’s endorsement could bridge the gap between pop culture and conservative values. Conversely critics in the music industry have pointed to Minaj’s 2018 comments where she identified as an immigrant and condemned previous border policies. In response to these comparisons Minaj told the Arizona crowd that it is okay to change your mind and that she no longer cares about the backlash from those she described as no longer using their own minds.
Strategically the rapper has recently focused her advocacy on international issues including the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Last month she worked alongside U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz to draw attention to violence in West Africa after sharing a Truth Social post from the President on the matter. This collaboration appears to have paved the way for her presence at AmericaFest where she also took aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom utilizing the nickname New scum. By aligning herself with prominent Republican figures Minaj is positioning herself as a vocal outsider willing to challenge the prevailing political leanings of the celebrity elite.
Looking at the future outlook the partnership between Nicki Minaj and Turning Point USA signals a new era of celebrity involvement in conservative grassroots organizing. As the administration prepares for the 2026 midterm cycle the inclusion of high profile voices from the music industry could play a vital role in reaching diverse demographics. For Minaj the coming months will likely involve a balancing act between her massive fan base and her newfound political activism. As she concluded her remarks in Phoenix she reiterated her commitment to her new path stating that she and her new allies are the cool kids who are too busy building to notice the criticism from the outside.