The Queen of MAGA? Nicki Minaj Stuns at AmericaFest, Praises Trump and Vance

The Barbz are currently navigating a massive political pivot. On Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, Nicki Minaj sent shock waves through the culture with a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, Arizona.

The Queens icon joined Erika Kirk, widow of TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated during an event in Utah this past September, for a candid sit-down. Walking out to her hit “Super Bass,” Minaj didn’t hold back, doubling down on her newfound support for the Trump administration.

“He Gives People Hope”

During the conversation, Nicki expressed deep admiration for President Donald Trump, citing his resilience in the face of public scrutiny.

“I have the utmost respect and admiration for our president,” Nicki told the crowd. “I don’t know if he even knows this, but he has given so many people hope that there’s a chance to beat the bad guys. And to win and to do it with your head held high and your integrity intact.”

She further empathized with the President’s legal and public battles, noting, “He’s been through everything a person can be through, publicly… having to constantly be lied on. It’s not really funny until you are in that person’s shoes.”

Target: Gavin Newsom

The rapper also used her platform to take aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom. In a moment that immediately went viral, Nicki referred to him as “Newscum,”a nickname popularized by Trump who criticized his policies regarding transgender healthcare for minors.

“We don’t have a problem cleaning up the scum if we have to,” she warned. “Please tread lightly. That’s what I would say to Gavvy-poo.”

A Controversial New Era

Nicki’s rightward shift marks a stark departure from 2018, when she vocally condemned the Trump administration’s border policies. Her pivot comes at a tense time; while she praises the President’s leadership, the administration is currently grappling with renewed scrutiny following the recent release of a new tranche of Jeffrey Epstein files.

Additionally, Nicki praised Vice President JD Vance, calling both him and Trump “role models” for young men and stating that they have an “uncanny ability to be someone that you relate to.”

Despite the predictable firestorm on social media, Nicki appears unfazed, telling Erika Kirk on stage that she doesn’t notice the industry backlash because she’s “too busy building.”