From Critic to Ally: Nicki Minaj Praises Trump at Conservative Summit

Rapper Nicki Minaj, once a vocal critic of Donald Trump's immigration policies, made a surprise appearance at a conservative conference in Phoenix on Sunday, praising President Trump and Vice President JD Vance as “role models” for young men.

On December 21, 2025, Minaj took the stage at Turning Point USA’s “AmericaFest” convention. In an interview with Erika Kirk, who now leads the influential conservative youth organization, the rapper articulated a stark reversal of her previous political stance. According to The Associated Press, Kirk is the widow of the organization's late founder, Charlie Kirk.

Minaj expressed deep admiration for the current administration while mocking California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 Democratic contender, by calling him “New-scum,” a nickname popularized by Trump.

"This administration is full of people with heart and soul, and they make me proud of them," Minaj said. "Both of them have a very uncanny ability to be someone that you relate to."

She explained her shift by saying she was tired of being “pushed around” and suggested that speaking one's mind has become controversial because “people are no longer using their minds.”

When asked about this change of heart on stage, Minaj simply stated, “it’s OK to change your mind.” Erika Kirk praised the rapper for being “courageous” in the face of expected backlash from the entertainment industry. Minaj dismissed the concern, saying, “I didn’t notice. We don’t even think about them.”

The Trinidadian-born artist, known for global hits like “Super Freaky Girl” and “Anaconda” and a recipient of 12 Grammy nominations, has now positioned herself at the center of the contentious intersection of American pop culture and politics.