Nicki Minaj Makes Surprise Appearance at Turning Point USA Event

Nicki Minaj sparked widespread conversation on Sunday after making an unexpected appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Arizona, where she spoke openly about her evolving political views and expressed admiration for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The event also served as a memorial for late conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

During an on-stage conversation with Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow and the current leader of Turning Point USA, Minaj discussed why she has recently aligned herself with the Make America Great Again movement—an alignment that has surprised many given her past public criticism of Trump.

Minaj described the current administration as one she feels connected to, praising Trump and Vance as leaders young men can look up to. She said she sees sincerity and relatability in both figures, noting that their personalities and approach to leadership resonate with her more than in the past.

Her appearance at AmericaFest, Turning Point USA’s flagship convention, marked a notable moment for the organization, as Minaj’s presence brought added attention to the conservative youth movement and further fueled discussion around her political evolution.

Throughout the event, Minaj was outspoken and unapologetic. She took aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom, echoing a nickname previously used by Trump, and brushed off criticism from within the entertainment industry regarding her political views. According to Minaj, backlash hasn’t affected her focus, saying she is more concerned with building and moving forward.

One tense moment occurred when Minaj, while attempting to compliment JD Vance’s political effectiveness, used the word “assassin” before quickly realizing the sensitivity of the term. The moment drew a quiet reaction from the crowd, but Erika Kirk immediately reassured her, expressing understanding and support.

Minaj also addressed international issues, particularly violence against Christians in Nigeria. She recently shared a post from Trump on Truth Social discussing possible sanctions against Nigeria, stating that it made her appreciate religious freedom in the United States. That statement led to an invitation for Minaj to participate in a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nations alongside Ambassador Mike Waltz and several faith leaders.

Explaining her willingness to speak out, Minaj said she feels exhausted by what she described as being silenced or pressured for holding differing views. She suggested that open dialogue has become increasingly difficult and praised Erika Kirk for creating a space where she felt supported. Kirk, in turn, thanked Minaj for standing firm despite criticism.

The moment stood in contrast to Minaj’s earlier political positions. In 2018, she publicly condemned Trump’s immigration policies, particularly the separation of children from their families at the southern border. At the time, Minaj shared her own experience immigrating to the United States at a young age and voiced strong opposition to the policy.

Now, Minaj openly acknowledges her shift. On stage, she emphasized that personal growth includes reassessing beliefs, stating plainly that changing one’s mind is not a flaw.

Best known for chart-topping hits such as “Anaconda,” “Starships,” and “Super Freaky Girl,” the Trinidadian-born rapper remains one of the most influential voices in hip-hop, with 12 Grammy nominations throughout her career. Her appearance at AmericaFest underscores how major cultural figures continue to influence—and complicate—political conversations in unexpected ways.