Charlie Kirk’s Old Nicki Minaj Comments Resurface

A clip of late conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk criticizing rapper Nicki Minaj has circulated widely online after Minaj made a high-profile appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The resurfaced remarks — where Kirk called Minaj “not a good role model” — have gained attention, given Minaj’s recent engagement with conservative political figures.

Video circulating on social platforms shows Kirk previously suggesting Minaj was not a positive influence for young Black women, comments that now appear at odds with her warm reception at the festival and her onstage discussion with Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow.

Nicki Minaj’s Surprising Role at Turning Point USA

Nicki Minaj’s appearance at the conservative event marked a notable moment in the intersection between pop culture and modern politics. She joined Erika Kirk onstage at the AmericanFest 2025 conference and delivered remarks praising President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, including calling them strong role models, even using language that became awkward given the context of Charlie Kirk’s assassination earlier in 2025.

During her speech, Minaj also criticised California Governor Gavin Newsom, echoing sentiments she’s shared previously on social media, and emphasised how she had “gotten tired of being pushed around,” reflecting her new public stance of political engagement.

The moment became especially striking when she accidentally referred to Vance as an “assassin” before realising the remark’s unintended resonance, given Charlie Kirk was killed at a TPUSA event — a moment that drew attention and sympathy from audience members and media alike.

Why the Old Comments Matter Now

The resurfacing of Kirk’s old remarks about Minaj — including claims she wasn’t a good role model — has sparked debate online about how political figures and celebrities shift over time and what commentary from the past means in the present moment.

Some supporters of Minaj have pointed to the irony of the situation, noting that her recent alliance with conservative circles contrasts sharply with how Kirk once critiqued her influence. Others argue tthat he conversation highlights broader cultural tensions as artists engage in political conversations outside traditional expectations.

The episode adds to a larger narrative around Minaj’s evolving public persona. Once outspoken against various policies she viewed as harmful — including past criticism of Republican initiatives — Minaj has in recent months expressed admiration for conservative leaders and causes, leading to both praise and criticism from different parts of her fan base and the broader public.

Reactions and Online Debate

Online reactions have been mixed. Some commentators see Minaj’s engagement with Turning Point USA as a strategic move or ga enuine expression of belief, while others view the resurfaced Kirk comment as evidence of longstanding cultural friction between conservative circles and mainstream entertainment figures. Many fans noted the contrast between old criticisms and Minaj’s current reception onstage.

Others have questioned what Minaj’s appearance signals about political alignment in entertainment, noting that celebrities increasingly cross ideological boundaries in public forums.

You might also want to read: ‘I’m Not F-ing Apologizing’: Amanda Seyfried Says on Kirk’s Death