Culture met conservatism on Sunday, when rap star Nicki Minaj took the stage at Turning Point USA’s 2025 America Festival in Phoenix, Arizona.
Turning Point USA surprised 30,000 attendees at AmericaFest on Sunday by closing the event with an appearance by Nicki Minaj, who received thunderous applause as she walked out on stage with Erika Kirk.
“So, those of you who know, Charlie is very good at delivering a surprise every AmFest, and we’re so lucky to have you. We’re so grateful,” Erica Kirk told the crowd after taking the stage with the rap star.
Minaj interjected, saying: “Thank you, I am honored to be here,” before repeating: “I am honored to be here,” adding: “Thank you for having me.”
Watch below:
Recently, Minaj has become more outspoken on political matters, praising President Donald Trump for intervening and taking the “mass slaughter” of Christians in Nigeria by Islamic extremists “seriously,” and criticizing California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) for saying he wants to “see transgender children.”
A source familiar with the logistical planning for Turning Point USA’s 2025 AmericaFest told Breitbart News that arrangements for Minaj to attend the event came about after the September 10 assassination of Charlie Kirk.
Minaj’s decision to speak at the Turning Point USA event following Kirk’s horrific murder highlights how his assassination inspired figures outside traditional conservative circles – who might otherwise have remained silent – to speak out more boldly about their beliefs, and honor a free speech martyr who lost his life while engaging in open dialogue.
Turning Point USA’s annual year-end conference concluded in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday afternoon — the organization’s first AmericaFest since the horrific assassination of its founder.
The event attracted more than 30,000 attendees — many of them first-time visitors — making this year’s AmericaFest the largest convention in Turning Point USA’s history.
Alana Mastrangelo is a reporter for Breitbart News. You can follow it Facebook And X in @ARmastrangeloAnd on Instagram.