Rapper Nicki Minaj deactivated her Instagram account on Christmas Eve following intense criticism for her appearance at a Turning Point USA AmericaFest event, per billboard.com.
The move comes amid a wave of online scrutiny after Minaj sat down for an interview with Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, in Phoenix on 21 December.
During the discussion, Minaj praised President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance as “amazing role models.” However, the interview gained significant traction online after Minaj accidentally referred to the Vice President as an “assassin.”
The slip-up was particularly sensitive given that Charlie Kirk was killed in September in what officials described as a political assassination. Erika Kirk quickly reassured the rapper, responding: “Trust me, there’s nothing new under the sun that I have not heard. You’re fine. I love you.”
The “Super Freaky Girl” rapper has become increasingly vocal regarding politics in recent months. In November, she spoke at a United Nations event to highlight the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
While some fans expressed concern over her political shift, others, including Amber Rose, have defended her. Rose told media outlets that Minaj’s support for the current administration does not equate to hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community, stating: “She didn’t say anything wrong.”
Vice President Vance also praised Minaj on X for her comments regarding inclusivity during the event. While Minaj has a history of temporary social media hiatuses, most recently in October, representatives for the artiste have yet to comment on whether this latest deactivation is permanent.
