Nicki Minaj draws attention after calling J.D. Vance an “assassin” at TPUSA event

Rapper Nicki Minaj sparked online discussion after an apparent verbal slip during her appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, where she briefly referred to U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance as an “assassin” while speaking onstage.

According to footage shared by TMZ, Minaj made the remark while participating in a live conversation at the conservative youth conference on Sunday. While praising figures within the current administration, she told the audience they had “amazing role models,” before mistakenly calling Vance an “assassin.” Moments later, Minaj visibly reacted to the comment, placing her head in her hands as murmurs spread through the crowd, suggesting she immediately recognized the error.

The discussion was moderated by Erika Kirk, widow of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. Kirk, who has publicly spoken about her husband’s death earlier this year, appeared to diffuse the moment by reassuring Minaj and laughing off the comment, according to video from the event.

Minaj’s appearance at AmericaFest included broader remarks praising President Donald Trump and criticizing California Governor Gavin Newsom, whom she referenced while encouraging young men in the audience to seek alternative leadership models. The rapper also discussed navigating public criticism and ignoring backlash on social media.

Neither Minaj nor representatives for Vice President Vance have issued a public statement addressing the comment. There is no indication the remark was intentional, and observers noted the artist’s immediate reaction suggested a misspeaking rather than a political statement.

Clips from the moment circulated widely on social media following the event, generating debate among fans and critics. Minaj has increasingly made headlines in recent years for her outspoken political commentary and public appearances beyond music.