Nicki Minaj made waves at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest this weekend, sitting down with Erika Kirk, widow of the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The appearance drew attention not only for Minaj’s embrace of conservative figures but also for a resurfaced 2024 video in which Charlie Kirk criticized her influence, according to TMZ.
In the clip, Kirk is seen debating a college student and questioning whether Minaj and fellow rapper Cardi B were positive role models for “18-year-old Black girls.”
The video has gone viral in the wake of Minaj’s TPUSA appearance, reigniting discussions about her influence and the late Kirk’s earlier opinions.
Despite the resurfaced clip, Minaj appeared unfazed, praising Erika Kirk and aligning herself with conservative causes on stage.
At the event, Minaj also made a controversial comment calling Vice President JD Vance “the assassin,” which led to murmurs among attendees. Erika Kirk intervened, laughing off the remark and easing the awkward moment.
Minaj’s political leanings have become increasingly visible in recent months. She has praised President Donald Trump for his stance on religious persecution abroad and has spoken positively about conservative leaders, signaling a notable shift in her public rhetoric.
The juxtaposition of Kirk’s earlier critique and Minaj’s current warm reception at TPUSA has sparked discussion online, with many noting the irony of the late conservative activist once questioning her as a role model.
While it’s unclear whether Kirk’s opinion of Minaj evolved before his death in September 2025, the resurfaced video highlights how past statements can resurface and take on new relevance in today’s political landscape, particularly regarding morality and influence on today’s youth.
For Minaj, the AmericaFest appearance represents both a public embrace of conservative figures and a moment of reconciliation with a past critic, as she continues to expand her presence in politically charged spaces.
