Erika Kirk, left, and Nicki Minaj speak during Turning Point USA's AmericaFest 2025, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Jon Cherry)
Nicki Minaj has found herself at the center of controversy following an unexpected comment made during her appearance at Turning Point USA’s annual AmericaFest on December 3, 2023. While sharing the stage with Erika Kirk, widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Minaj referred to Ohio Senator JD Vance as an “assassin.” This remark has sparked significant backlash, given the sensitive nature of the conversation and the context of Kirk’s recent loss.
During the event held in Arizona, Minaj participated in a Q&A session where she was asked by Ms. Kirk what advice she would give to young men in attendance. The rapper responded, “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.” The comment, made in close proximity to Ms. Kirk, elicited an immediate reaction from Minaj, who covered her mouth and looked away in realization of the awkwardness of her statement.
In an effort to ease the tension, Erika Kirk remarked, “There is nothing new under the sun that I have not heard,” and added, “I love you.” She encouraged the audience to find humor in the moment, stating, “You have to laugh about it, truly.” Kirk, who has taken on the role of CEO at Turning Point USA since her husband’s death, continued by affirming Minaj’s character. “She has a soul and a heart for the Lord, and words are words. But I know her heart, and it doesn’t even matter,” she said.
Minaj’s remarks come at a time when she has increasingly aligned herself with right-wing politics, positioning herself as a significant voice within the cultural landscape. During the event, she expressed admiration for both Donald Trump and JD Vance, stating, “I love both of them. Both of them have a very uncanny ability to be someone that you relate to.”
The backlash from the public was palpable, with Minaj reportedly losing hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram shortly after the event. She has since deactivated her account, although she remains active on X, where she shared images from her time with Ms. Kirk.
This incident highlights the complex interplay of celebrity, politics, and public perception, particularly in an era where social media amplifies every comment and action. As the fallout continues, both Minaj and Kirk have navigated the situation with a blend of humor and grace, leaving a lasting impression on the audience present at AmericaFest.
