Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk surprised attendees at AmericaFest on Sunday by welcoming rapper Nicki Minaj to the stage for an unscheduled question-and-answer session, drawing loud cheers from the crowd at the Phoenix Convention Center.
Nicki Minaj arrives at TPUSA’s AmericaFest
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Rumors had circulated in recent days about a possible appearance by Minaj, but Turning Point USA made no official announcement ahead of time. When she took the stage, Minaj saluted the audience and said, “I’m honored to be here. I’m honored to be here.”
Minaj has become increasingly visible in political settings in recent months. In November, she joined President Donald Trump at the White House and spoke at the United Nations to raise awareness about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
During the AmericaFest appearance, Minaj offered strong praise for President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, saying both men have an “uncanny” ability to relate to everyday Americans. “I love both of them,” she said, later adding that the administration is “full of people with heart and soul” who make her “feel proud to be American.”
Minaj said she has “the utmost respect and admiration” for Trump, crediting him with giving people hope and the belief that it is possible to overcome adversaries while maintaining integrity. She also spoke about the personal toll of public criticism, saying Trump has endured being “constantly lied on” and that such treatment affects not only the individual but their family as well.
“Our vice president — well, I love both of them — they’re both powerful men, smart, strong, all of that,” Minaj said. She added that Trump and Vance remain relatable and connected to the real world, saying, “When I hear them speak, I know that they’re one of us.”
At one point, Minaj referred to Vice President Vance as an “assassin” before quickly walking back the comment, acknowledging the sensitivity surrounding the term. Kirk leaned into the exchange and reassured Minaj of her support as the audience reacted.
Minaj also used her appearance to criticize California Governor Gavin Newsom, reading aloud posts she had recently shared on X. When asked by Kirk if she had anything to say to the governor, Minaj replied, “Dear Newscum, we don’t have a problem cleaning up the scum if we have to. Please tread lightly.” She later added, “That’s what I would say to GavyPoo,” as Kirk laughed.
Minaj previously supported Democratic figures such as Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton but has since become a vocal supporter of the Trump administration.
Organizers described Minaj’s decision to appear as part of a broader response to Kirk’s killing, which they say has motivated figures outside traditional conservative circles to speak more openly about their beliefs in his memory.
AmericaFest 2025 drew more than 30,000 attendees, making it the largest conference in Turning Point USA’s history and the organization’s first AmericaFest since the death of its founder.
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