BREAKING: Nicki Minaj Sparks Viral Moment at Turning Point USA Event with ‘Assassin’ Comment to Erika Kirk

PHOENIX, AZ — In a surreal moment that has quickly set social media ablaze, global superstar Nicki Minaj made a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest on Sunday, where a verbal slip-up involving Vice President JD Vance left the audience stunned.

While speaking on stage with Erika Kirk, the widow of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Minaj referred to Vice President JD Vance as an “assassin.” The comment was intended as high praise for Vance’s political sharp-shooting and debate skills, but the choice of words carried a heavy weight: the event was being held in honor of Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated just three months ago in September.

The Slip-Up and the Save

The “Starships” rapper was offering advice to the young men in the audience when the gaffe occurred.

“Dear young men, you have amazing role models like our handsome, dashing president,” Minaj said, referring to Donald Trump. “And you have amazing role models like the assassin JD Vance, our vice president.”

Minaj immediately froze, realizing the gravity of the word choice given the setting. She paused for several seconds, visibly embarrassed, and covered her mouth as a mix of nervous laughter and murmurs rippled through the Phoenix Convention Center.

Erika Kirk, who has taken a leadership role at Turning Point USA following her husband’s death, quickly stepped in to console the rapper.“Trust me, there is nothing new under the sun that I have not heard, so you’re fine,” Kirk told Minaj. “You have to laugh about it, truly. I know your heart and I will not judge that.”

Minaj’s Full “MAGA” Pivot

Despite the awkward moment, the appearance solidified Minaj’s recent and vocal shift toward the “America First” movement. During the Q&A, she:

• Targeted Gavin Newsom: Mocked the California Governor by calling him “Newscum.”
• Praised the Administration: Stated she has the “utmost respect and admiration” for President Trump, saying he has given people hope to “beat the bad guys.”
• Addressed the Backlash: When asked about criticism from the music industry, Minaj replied, “I didn’t notice… we’re the cool kids.”

The appearance follows months of Minaj using her platform to speak out on the persecution of Nigerian Christians and aligning with the Trump administration’s foreign policy stances.

The Aftermath

The White House later fueled the viral fire by posting a clip of Minaj’s praise for the President. Minaj reposted the video, adding, “My darling, you did it. We’re good. Love you.”

Vice President JD Vance, who spoke later that afternoon, did not directly address the “assassin” label but praised the movement for welcoming “independent thinkers.”