Nicki Minaj praises Trump at conservative event, sits next to Erika Kirk

WASHINGTON: Grammy-nominated rapper Nicki Minaj made a surprise appearance at a conservative gathering in Arizona on Sunday, held to commemorate late activist Charlie Kirk and discuss gender-related issues in the US.

During her interview with Erika Kirk at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, Minaj expressed support for the current US administration. In an awkward moment, she referred to Vice President JD Vance as an “assassin” while praising him as a role model, as she sat just feet away from the widow of Charlie Kirk.

“Dear young men, you have amazing role models like our handsome, dashing president, and you have amazing role models like the assassin JD Vance, our vice president,” Minaj told the audience. She quickly realized the slip, covering her face and pausing for several silent, awkward seconds.

Erika Kirk immediately came to Minaj’s defense. “Trust me, there’s nothing new under the sun that I haven’t heard. So you’re fine,” she reassured the rapper. “I love you.”

Despite Kirk’s comforting words, Minaj appeared shaken by her choice of wording, according to NBC News.

“I love you. You have to laugh about it, truly,” Kirk added, helping to ease tension in the room. “I have been called every single thing, and you know what? God is so good — you let it roll right off your back. And this is what’s beautiful about this moment. If the internet wants to clip it, who cares? She’s an amazing woman with a soul and a heart for the Lord. Words are words, but I know her heart.”

Minaj has become an unexpected and outspoken supporter of conservative figures in recent years. The California resident has frequently criticized Golden State Governor Gavin Newsom, whom she has mockingly referred to as “New-scum,” moments before the “assassin” slip.