Nicki Minaj surprised many attendees and observers Sunday when the Grammy nominated rapper appeared at a conservative gathering in Arizona and publicly praised President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, calling them “role models” for young men.
The appearance marked a notable moment in the ongoing intersection of celebrity culture and partisan politics, particularly given Minaj’s past criticism of Trump and his immigration policies.
Minaj took the stage at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest convention, an annual event that draws thousands of conservative activists, students and elected officials.
She was interviewed by Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was memorialized during the event.
During the discussion, Minaj expressed admiration for Trump and Vance, saying the administration was “full of people with heart and soul.”
She praised both leaders for what she described as their relatability and confidence, adding that they made her “proud.”
Nicki Minaj praises Trump and Vance at a time when celebrity endorsements have become increasingly scrutinized by voters across the political spectrum.
Minaj also criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat widely viewed as a potential twenty twenty eight presidential contender, using a nickname previously popularized by Trump.
Political analysts said Minaj’s appearance reflects a broader trend of public figures reassessing political positions in a polarized climate.
“Celebrities are no longer fitting neatly into partisan boxes,” said Daniel Harper, a political communication professor at Arizona State University. “When Nicki Minaj praises Trump and Vance, it challenges assumptions about where cultural influence resides.”
Harper added that such moments are often less about policy and more about identity and expression. “Statements about free speech, independence and resisting pressure resonate across ideological lines,” he said.
According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted earlier this year, about four in ten Americans said celebrities should stay out of politics, while roughly the same number said public figures have a right to speak openly about political views.
The survey also found that younger voters are more likely to follow political messages delivered by entertainers and influencers than by traditional party leaders, underscoring the potential impact when Nicki Minaj praises Trump and Vance on a high-profile stage.
Turning Point USA officials said attendance at this year’s AmericaFest exceeded previous years, with participants traveling from all fifty states. Reaction among attendees was mixed but engaged.
“I never thought I’d hear her say those things,” said Mark Reynolds, a twenty two year old college student from Phoenix. “Even if I don’t agree with everything, I respect her for showing up and speaking honestly.”
Outside the venue, some expressed skepticism. “Celebrities change positions all the time,” said Laura Martinez, a local resident who did not attend the event. What matters is policy, not applause.
Minaj addressed criticism directly during the interview, saying she was tired of being “pushed around” and arguing that changing one’s mind should not be controversial.
“It’s OK to change your mind,” she said. Whether Nicki Minaj praises Trump and Vance again in future appearances remains unclear.
Her comments did not include an explicit endorsement, and her representatives did not respond to requests for clarification about her political alignment.
Cultural analysts said such moments may become more common as the twenty twenty eight election cycle approaches.
“As campaigns look for new ways to reach disengaged voters, celebrity voices will continue to draw attention,” said media strategist Rachel Coleman. “But attention does not always translate into lasting political influence.”
Nicki Minaj’s appearance at a conservative event in Arizona added a new chapter to the evolving relationship between popular culture and American politics.
Her praise for President Trump and Vice President Vance, contrasted with her past criticism, highlighted shifting personal perspectives and the growing complexity of political expression among public figures.
The moment underscored broader questions about influence, identity and change in a deeply divided political landscape.
