Nicki Minaj is facing backlash from former fans who are petitioning for her deportation after her recent interview with Erika Kirk.
The rapper, known for her hit “Starships,” made an unexpected appearance at the Turning Point USA event in Phoenix, Arizona, on December 21. She shared the stage with Erika Kirk, widow of conservative social media figure Charlie Kirk.
This move surprised many, as Minaj has previously expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community and spoken about her own experiences as an immigrant in the U.S.
Fans are troubled by Minaj’s apparent support for the MAGA movement, considering the Trump administration’s policies that include strict immigration measures and actions against trans people.
A Change.org petition titled “Deport Nicki Minaj to Trinidad” has exceeded 31,000 signatures. Minaj, originally from Trinidad and Tobago, moved to the United States as a child.
Back in 2018, Minaj shared on Instagram that she came to the U.S. as an “illegal immigrant at five years old,” according to People.
In 2024, Minaj reportedly mentioned during a TikTok Live that she does not hold U.S. citizenship.
She stated, “I was born on a beautiful island called Trinidad and Tobago. But I’ve been in the States for many years. You would think that with the millions of dollars that I’ve paid in taxes to this country that I would have been given an honorary citizenship many, many, many thousands of years ago.”
The petition points to Minaj’s political stances and public behavior as issues of public concern.
Minaj’s representatives have been contacted for comment.
The petition claims, “Nicki Minaj’s actions and words have taken a turn that has left many of her supporters and those who once found solace in her music feeling deeply betrayed.”
It continues, “Deporting Nicki Minaj back to Trinidad would serve as a reminder that public figures need to be accountable for their words and the broader impact they have on diverse communities. It’s not just about one person’s fall from grace; it’s about holding everyone to a standard of compassion and consistency, especially when they possess significant influence.”
Minaj also faced criticism for a gaffe during her comments about conservative role models for young men.
While addressing the audience, Minaj mistakenly used the term ‘assassin’ to describe the vice president in front of Kirk, whose husband had been assassinated in September.
Minaj, 43, remarked, “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 – and when I say that…”
Realizing her mistake, Minaj paused abruptly, and Kirk interjected.
“Trust me, there’s nothing new under the sun that I have not heard, so you’re fine,” Kirk, 37, reassured Minaj. “[Speaking directly to Minaj about what just happened] Yes, we did, I love you; I love you.”
As Minaj appeared distressed by her error, Kirk continued, “You have to laugh about it. Truly, I have been called every single thing, and you know what God is so good, you let it roll right off your back – and this is what’s so beautiful about this moment, because if the internet wants to clip it, who cares?”