Media commentator and former MSNBC host Joy Ann Reid has sharply criticized Nicki Minaj’s apparent political shift, suggesting the rapper’s recent actions reflect self-preservation rather than conviction.
Speaking during a recent episode of “Way Up With Angela Yee,” Reid contrasted Minaj’s past public stances with her more recent appearances and endorsements.
Minaj, who previously criticized Donald Trump’s deportation policies and publicly disparaged Melania Trump, has in recent months been seen engaging with Trump-aligned spaces, including AmericaFest, and praising figures associated with Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization.
Reid described the evolution as troubling and inconsistent, particularly given Minaj’s earlier rhetoric. “It’s sad,” Reid said, explaining that she sees the shift as a blow to hip-hop’s longstanding reputation as a genre rooted in resistance and social critique.
Claims of Self-Preservation
During the interview, Reid speculated that Minaj’s change in tone may be driven by personal concerns rather than ideological alignment.
She referenced the rapper’s Trinidadian immigrant background, noting that Minaj arrived in the United States as a child, as well as the serious legal issues involving close family members, including her brother’s incarceration and her husband’s past legal troubles.
Reid stated that her comments reflected her own analysis, suggesting Minaj could be seeking protection or political favor amid heightened immigration and law-and-order rhetoric ahead of the 2026 U.S. election cycle.
Reid characterized Minaj’s controversial political comments in recent times as “opportunistic” becasue they are not consistent with her previous political pronouncements and views.
“Nobody should never listen to anything she says other than just her music. This lady came here at five years old, undocumented. She understands what it’s like to be undocumented, grew up in this city. She’s deportable, because she definitely was undocumented originally,” Reid said.
A Broader Cultural Flashpoint
The remarks have intensified an already simmering debate about celebrity political alignment, authenticity, and accountability.
Artists across genres increasingly find themselves scrutinized not only for their music, but for how their public positions intersect with policy debates, particularly on immigration, criminal justice, and civil rights.
While Minaj has not directly responded to Reid’s comments, some of her recent comments and praise for President Trump have been slammed by many as lacking integrity, especially when some of the figure she is now supporting have criticized her in the past.
Before Charlie Kirk was fatally shot, he had said that Minaj is “not a good role model” for young Black women.
Also, while at a Turning Point USA event in December last year, she praised Trump, saying:
“I have the utmost respect and admiration for our president. I don’t know if he even knows this, but he’s given so many people hope that there’s a chance to beat the bad guys and to win and to do it with your head held high and your integrity intact,”
Later, when asked about male role models, she called Trump “our handsome, dashing president.” Many felt those glowing praises were not honest.
As the 2026 political season accelerates, Reid’s critique underscores how celebrity activism—or perceived reversals—can quickly become symbolic flashpoints in America’s wider cultural and political battles.
