In a move that has ignited a firestorm across social media and beyond, rap superstar Nicki Minaj declared herself President Donald Trump’s “number one fan” during a public appearance at the U.S. Treasury’s launch event for the proposed “Trump Accounts” initiative on January 28, 2026. The statement, made while the 43-year-old artist showed off her newly obtained “gold card” visa, has left fans divided, critics furious, and the internet buzzing with disbelief and debate.
The event, held in Washington, D.C., was designed to promote Trump’s newborn savings accounts program, which aims to provide trust funds for American children, offering residency paths and financial benefits. Minaj, born in Trinidad and Tobago as Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, took the stage alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other celebrities to endorse the plan. Holding up her gold visa card—a symbol of her path to U.S. citizenship—she delivered a passionate defense of the president.
“I will say that I am probably the president’s number one fan, and that’s not going to change,” Minaj stated, drawing cheers from the crowd. “The hate, or what people have to say, it does not affect me at all. It actually motivates me to support him more.” She went on to praise Trump as an “extraordinary man” and pledged to donate hundreds of thousands to fans through the accounts program, emphasizing her commitment to the initiative.
The declaration came as a surprise to many, given Minaj’s past criticisms of political figures and her vocal advocacy for social justice issues. In 2018, she publicly criticized then-President Trump’s immigration policies, tweeting about the separation of families at the border. Her fanbase, the “Barbz,” includes a diverse group of young, progressive supporters who have championed her for empowering women and marginalized communities. The endorsement has sparked backlash, with many fans expressing disappointment and confusion.
Social media exploded immediately. On X (formerly Twitter), #NickiMinajTrump trended worldwide, with posts ranging from “Queen Nicki knows what’s up—Trump 2028!” to “This can’t be real. Unfollowing. How could she support him after everything?” One viral tweet from a longtime fan read: “Nicki, you were my idol for standing up to the system. Now this? Heartbroken.” Others defended her, pointing to her immigrant background and arguing that her support aligns with policies benefiting legal immigrants like herself.
Critics were quick to pile on. Rapper Cardi B, a longtime rival, subtweeted: “Some people forget where they came from.” Political commentators accused Minaj of opportunism, suggesting the endorsement could be tied to her husband Kenneth Petty’s legal troubles or her own visa status. Minaj, who has faced scrutiny over Petty’s sex offender registration issues, has not addressed those speculations directly.
Trump himself responded positively, calling Minaj the “greatest female rapper” during the event and later tweeting: “Thank you, Nicki! You’re a winner, and America loves winners. Let’s make it great again!” The mutual admiration has fueled speculation about potential collaborations or Minaj’s involvement in Trump’s administration initiatives.
Minaj’s career has been no stranger to controversy. From feuds with fellow artists to outspoken views on vaccines and feminism, she has always courted attention. But this political pivot marks a new chapter. Some analysts see it as a calculated move to appeal to a broader, conservative audience amid slowing album sales and streaming numbers. Her latest album, Pink Friday 2 (2023), was a commercial hit but faced mixed reviews.
The fan reaction has been swift and severe. Reports indicate Minaj lost over 500,000 Instagram followers in the 24 hours following the event, though her core Barbz remain fiercely loyal. Online petitions calling for boycotts of her music have gained traction, while pro-Trump groups have welcomed her with open arms.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Nicki Minaj’s declaration has polarized her audience like never before. Is this a genuine shift in beliefs, a publicity stunt, or something else? The queen of rap has always played by her own rules—but this time, the crown might be slipping.
