Erica and Charlie Kirk, weeks before their assassination. Credit: Instagram @mrserikakirk
nicki minaj caused backlash and confusion after mentioning US Vice President J.D. Vance as an “assassin” During a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA America Fest in PhoenixArizona, while standing in line. erica kirkwidow of late conservative activist charlie kirk. The moment went viral online.
What happened between Nicki Minaj and Erica Kirk at America Fest in Phoenix
According to multiple reports, Turning Point USA wrapped up its 2025 AmericaFest conference, with Minaj on stage for a Q&A with Erica Kirke. In a statement praising the conservative “role model,” Minaj called Vance an “assassin,” followed by a notable silence, as highlighted by several media outlets.
Americafest is one of the largest gatherings of the conservative movement in the United States. According to reports, attendance was approximately 30,000 people.
Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a campus event at Utah Valley University in September 2025.
Did “assassin” mean literally in reference to J.D. Vance?
Minaj has previously used the word “assassin” in a positive slang sense when praising Vance. In a recent post about Please, Vance is an assassin. He’s as fast as a computer, maybe even faster. He’s the best blend of us and them we’ve ever seen.
While some news outlets and online commenters have suggested that the remarks on stage were intended in that context, critics argue that his use of the term while standing next to the widow of a man killed in a recent shooting was particularly offensive.
Tyler Robinson, 22, the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s murder, has been charged with aggravated murder and other crimes. According to Reuters, prosecutors have indicated they intend to seek the death penalty.
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Watch the clip of Nicki Minaj and Erica Kirk below…
