Nicki Minaj’s recent appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest has ignited discussions about her influence and political affiliations. The rapper joined Erika Kirk, widow of the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, on stage, marking a notable moment in her evolving engagement with conservative circles. This event has drawn renewed attention to a video from 2024 where Charlie Kirk criticized Minaj’s impact on young women, particularly questioning her role as a positive figure for “18-year-old Black girls.”
In the resurfaced video, Kirk debates a college student, expressing concern over the influence of Minaj and fellow rapper Cardi B. The clip gained traction online following Minaj’s participation at AmericaFest, prompting many to reflect on the irony of her warm reception at an event where Kirk once voiced strong objections to her celebrity status. Despite the critical feedback from Kirk, Minaj appeared unperturbed during her time on stage, offering praise for Erika Kirk and engaging in conservative causes.
Minaj’s Political Shift and Controversial Remarks
During the event, Minaj also made headlines for calling Vice President JD Vance “the assassin,” a remark that generated surprise among attendees. Erika Kirk, present in the audience, quickly intervened, laughing off the comment to alleviate the tension. This incident underscores Minaj’s increasing visibility in political discourse, as she has recently expressed admiration for former President Donald Trump, particularly regarding his views on religious persecution.
The juxtaposition of Charlie Kirk’s previous critique and Minaj’s evolving public persona has sparked online debate. Many commentators have noted the contrasting perspectives between the conservative figure’s past opinions and the rapper’s current alignment with conservative leaders. While it remains uncertain if Kirk’s views on Minaj shifted before his passing in September 2025, the resurfacing of this video highlights how past statements can regain significance in the ever-changing political landscape.
Minaj’s appearance at AmericaFest signifies a broader trend of celebrities engaging with political movements, often reshaping their public images. The event has become a focal point for discussions on morality and the influence of public figures on youth, particularly in light of the criticism from a prominent conservative voice. As Minaj navigates this politically charged space, the implications of her actions and affiliations will likely continue to resonate within both the entertainment and political spheres.
The video of Charlie Kirk discussing Minaj’s influence can be viewed below, providing context to this ongoing dialogue about role models and public perception.
“You have amazing role models like the assassin JD Vance,” said Minaj, igniting a mix of reactions from the audience.
As the conversation evolves, it remains to be seen how Minaj will further engage with these themes and what impact her choices will have on her fan base and beyond.
