Multiple petitions calling for the deportation of Nicki Minaj have gained significant traction following the rapper’s recent alignment with conservative political circles, per nme.com. Combined, the appeals have now surpassed 120,000 signatures.
The backlash intensified last month after Minaj appeared as a surprise guest at a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix. During a conversation with Erika Kirk, widow of the late political commentator Charlie Kirk, Minaj expressed “respect and admiration” for Donald Trump, describing him as “dashing,” while escalating her public feud with California Governor Gavin Newsom.
When questioned about the potential fallout from her comments, Minaj remained defiant. “I don’t think about them,” she stated. “We’re the cool kids. The other people… they’re just disgruntled with themselves.”
Despite her public bravado, the rapper briefly deactivated her Instagram account as criticism mounted.
According to reports from Rolling Stone, at least three Change.org petitions seeking her return to her native Trinidad and Tobago were launched in late December. While most emerged following her “AmericaFest” appearance, the largest single petition, boasting 83,000 signatures, actually dates back to last summer.
The shift in political stance is also impacting Minaj’s presence in the music scene. Newsweek reports that clubgoers have been filmed booing her tracks, with several videos going viral showing crowds stopping mid-dance when her verses begin.
The controversy follows a sharp exchange with Governor Newsom over LGBTQ+ advocacy. After Newsom defended his record, Minaj hit back on social media, dismissing his policies and calling for his removal with the hashtag #GavOUT.
The political divide has even reached the White House race, with Vice President JD Vance recently appearing to side with Minaj during her reignited public dispute with fellow rapper Cardi B.
