Erika Kirk Consoles Nicki Minaj After ‘Assassin’ Gaffe at Turning Point USA Event
At the Turning Point USA AmericaFest gathering in Phoenix, rapper Nicki Minaj became the focus of an unexpected moment of public empathy after making an awkward verbal choice while addressing the crowd. Erika Kirk, widow of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, stepped in to console Minaj, diffusing the tension with grace and understanding. Investing.com
A Verbal Misstep in a High-Profile Setting
During her remarks at the conservative youth organization’s annual event, Minaj was lauding political figures admired by the audience. While speaking about Vice President J.D. Vance, she said: “Dear young men, you have amazing role models like our handsome, dashing president, and you have amazing role models like the assassin, J.D. Vance, our vice president.” Minaj immediately realized the unfortunate phrasing, paused, and covered her mouth in embarrassment as scattered laughter rippled through the crowd. Investing.com
The choice of the word “assassin” was particularly striking — not in a critical sense but as praise for Vance’s political prowess — and it occurred at a gathering honoring the legacy of Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot in September while participating in a campus debate. Investing.com
Erika Kirk’s Calm and Supportive Response
Rather than allow the remark to dominate the moment, Erika Kirk intervened with empathy. She reassured Minaj onstage, noting that she had heard all kinds of comments before and encouraging a lighter perspective. “Trust me, there’s nothing new under the sun that I have not heard,” Kirk said. “So you’re fine … I love you. You have to laugh about it truly.” Investing.com
Minaj thanked Kirk before continuing her remarks, and the exchange drew attention for the compassionate tone set by Kirk in an otherwise tense situation. Investing.com
After the Event
Following her appearance, the White House posted a video clip of Minaj at the festival where she reiterated her “utmost respect and admiration” for President Donald Trump. Minaj reposted the clip on social media, adding affectionate remarks that suggested the moment had been resolved and understood in good spirit. MarketScreener
Minaj’s comments and the response from Erika Kirk highlight the delicate balance public figures must strike when speaking at politically and emotionally charged events. What could have become a sustained point of discomfort instead became a story of gracious support — underscored by Kirk’s willingness to offer understanding. Investing.com
