Nicki Minaj Defends Trump Alliance at Million Dollar Pitch Competition

Published September 21, 2026

The Fox News Interview

In a recent interview with Fox News host Laura Ingraham, Nicki Minaj addressed the public backlash surrounding her political alignment. She stated that she is honored to work with President Trump and the administration, describing him as someone who has inspired many people. When asked if she had any message for her critics regarding this decision, Minaj responded immediately with "Absolutely nothing," adding that she did not know why she should offer an explanation.

Role in the Million Dollar Pitch Competition

Minaj’s comments were made while she participated as a judge for the Trump administration’s Million Dollar Pitch Competition. The event featured five small-business finalists competing for a share of a $1 million prize pool. This role marked a significant step in her continued alignment with the administration, which has persisted for nearly a year following her initial political pivot.

Judges evaluate business presentations in a minimalist conference room setting.

The January Summit Appearance

Minaj met President Trump at the Trump Accounts Summit in January, where she publicly declared herself his "No. 1 fan." During her speech, she stated that criticism and smear campaigns only motivated her to support him more, asserting that God is protecting him. Trump praised Minaj during the event, calling her a fantastic person with real talent who is respected by everybody.

A speaker addresses an attentive crowd from a raised platform.

Backlash and Social Media Response

Following her appearance at a Turning Point USA event in December where she spoke with Erika Kirk, Minaj faced significant public opposition. The backlash included multiple petitions calling for her deportation from the United States, despite her having moved to the country from Trinidad at age five. In response to the controversy, Minaj deactivated her Instagram account while continuing to defend her political stance.

A smartphone rests face down next to stacked papers on a wooden surface.

Future Touring and Public Persona

Minaj indicated that she is currently in her "businesswoman era" and plans to return to touring eventually. She stated that when she performs, she will focus on having fun and reminding audiences of the blessings of living in the country, rather than lecturing anyone. She emphasized that performing allows for shared memories and a carefree environment, explicitly rejecting further questions about concert logistics.

Trump's On-Stage Interaction

During the January Trump Accounts Summit, President Trump engaged directly with Minaj while she sat in the front row. He joked with her during his time on stage, creating a visible moment of camaraderie between the two figures. This interaction occurred alongside his public praise for her character and talent, reinforcing the personal nature of their connection at the event.

Minaj's Rhetoric on Bullying

In her speech at the summit, Minaj framed public criticism as a form of bullying that would not succeed against the president. She stated that smear campaigns were ineffective and asserted that God is protecting Trump from such attacks. By describing opposition as an attempt to bully him, she positioned her support as a defensive measure against perceived harassment rather than mere political alignment.