Full Breakdown
Nicki Minaj Defends Her Support for President Donald Trump Amid Public Criticism
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: On-air Defense of the Administration
On September 18, rapper Nicki Minaj (Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, 43) appeared on Fox News’ *The Ingraham Angle* to address criticism for working with the sitting president. When host Laura Ingraham asked whether she had anything to say to her critics, Minaj replied, “Absolutely nothing.” She then praised President Trump, describing him as “fun,” “grounded,” and someone she could “relate to.”
Program Initiatives Linking Minaj to the Administration
The rapper’s public alignment coincides with two Trump-administration initiatives. At the January 28, 2026 “Trump Accounts” summit in Washington, DC, the Treasury announced a program that will deposit $1,000 into investment accounts for every child born between 2025 and 2028 once parents enroll them on their tax returns.
Separately, the Small Business Administration (SBA) launched the Million Dollar Pitch Competition, a reality-TV contest offering a $1 million cash pool to five entrepreneurs. Minaj confirmed her role as a judge alongside entrepreneur Grant Cardone, U.S. Chief Design Officer Joe Gebbia, and host Dean Cain.
Official Statements & Verbatim Quotes
- “I am honored to be able to have an opportunity to work with this administration and to work with President Trump. He has inspired many people, not just me. And he's - he's fun,” — Entertainment Nicki Minaj — Minaj expressed honor in working with the administration and highlighted Trump’s inspirational impact.
- “Many celebrities feel the way I do, but they don't say it,” — Entertainment Nicki Minaj — She noted that many celebrities share her political views but remain silent.
- “This is a major, MAJOR KEY,” — Entertainment Nicki Minaj — On X, Minaj announced her involvement in the competition, calling it “a major, MAJOR KEY.”
- “And no, I will not be on stage lecturing anyone,” — Entertainment Nicki Minaj — She clarified she will not “lecture anyone” while judging the final round.
Timeline of Key Appearances and Announcements
- January 28 2026 – Trump Accounts summit at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, Washington, DC.
- September 18 – Minaj’s interview on *The Ingraham Angle*.
- August 31 – Minaj posts about the competition on X.
- May 13 (scheduled) – Minaj’s profile in *TIME* slated to discuss her disappointment with former President Barack Obama and her support for Trump.
What’s Next: Judging the Million Dollar Pitch Competition
The competition’s final round is set for Friday, September 18 in Washington, DC, where Minaj will serve as a judge. She emphasized she will focus on evaluating pitches rather than delivering speeches, reinforcing her continued public partnership with the Trump administration.
