Nicki Minaj deactivated her Instagram after a controversial AmericaFest interview in Phoenix. Nevertheless, the move did not silence the conversation around her politics. On December 21, she joined Erika Kirk for a live talk at Turning Point USA’s event. In contrast, many fans expected music, touring, and pop culture, not partisan praise.
Minaj called Donald Trump “handsome” and said he inspires young men to aim higher. She also praised Vice President JD Vance as a leader worth watching. But her sudden alignment with conservative activists surprised supporters and longtime critics alike. Above all, the moment proved how fast celebrity politics can dominate entertainment headlines.
One Mistake Goes Viral, and the Backlash Surges
During the conversation, Minaj briefly misspoke and called Vance an “assassin.” Nonetheless, she corrected herself immediately and looked visibly shocked. The word hit harder because Charlie Kirk died in a September 10, 2025, shooting in Utah. Erika Kirk reassured her quickly and told her she had heard far worse before. But social media clipped the moment, replayed it, and turned it into instant memes.
In contrast, many fans said live interviews can trip up even experienced stars. Amber Rose defended Nicki Minaj and dismissed claims that she attacked LGBTQ+ people. On the flip side, disappointed listeners said the politics overshadowed the music and community.
JD Vance Boosts a Quote as Fans Debate Her Next Move
The backlash widened when JD Vance posted about Minaj’s comments on X. Moreover, he highlighted her point about celebrating one group without mocking another. Minaj said Black girls deserve to feel beautiful without shaming blonde, blue-eyed girls. In comparison, the quote sounded like her classic empowerment message, not campaign messaging.
But critics still questioned why she partnered with Turning Point USA during a heated election cycle. Regardless, her Instagram break pushed “Nicki Minaj AmericaFest” higher on search trends. Nevertheless, supporters said she chose privacy and control over endless comment wars. After all, stepping back can calm the feed, yet it rarely ends the debate.
