Nicki Minaj, the Trinidadian-American rapper, announced that she is finalizing her citizenship paperwork during an event with former President Donald Trump. The announcement came on Wednesday, where Minaj showcased a Trump gold card, a symbolic gesture connected to her recent advocacy for Trump’s new IRA-style savings accounts for children.
In a post on social media, Minaj, whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, expressed her excitement about her citizenship process. She wrote, “Finalizing that citizenship paperwork as we speak as per MY wonderful, gracious, charming President.” Her post included an image referencing the Chucky character, which many interpreted as a nod to her critics. The rapper thanked her supporters, stating, “Thanks to the petition. … I wouldn’t have done it without you. Oh CitizenNIKA you are thee moment.”
Minaj, who immigrated to the United States at the age of five, previously described her experience as an “illegal immigrant” from Trinidad and Tobago. In 2018, she reflected on her childhood journey to America, emphasizing the challenges faced by immigrant children, particularly during the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” immigration enforcement policy. At that time, she shared a poignant image of migrant children housed in chain-link fencing, urging for compassion and understanding.
The rapper has undergone a notable shift in her political stance over the years. In a 2020 interview with Rolling Stone, she expressed mixed feelings about Trump, acknowledging the humor she found in his television persona while criticizing his immigration policies. Despite her earlier reservations, Minaj has now emerged as a vocal supporter of Trump, even referring to herself as his “No. 1 fan” during a recent event.
During the launch of Trump’s savings account initiative, the former president praised Minaj as “the greatest and most successful female rapper in history,” a title that aligns with her significant achievements in the music industry. Trump highlighted her contributions, stating she had donated “hundreds of thousands of dollars” to support the new accounts designed for children.
The children’s savings accounts are part of Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” which includes tax breaks and spending cuts. Parents can open an account for their child under 18, with an initial deposit of $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury. Parents are also allowed to make additional pre-tax contributions of up to $5,000 each year. While withdrawals for education, housing, or business purposes will be taxed as ordinary income, the program aims to provide financial support for American families.
Minaj’s public appearances have included engagements with conservative organizations, such as Turning Point USA, where she has openly supported Trump’s policies. She has also made headlines for her candid remarks about societal issues, including her critiques of California Governor Gavin Newsom. Minaj has become known for her strong opinions, often using her platform to address topics she feels passionately about.
Currently, Minaj is married to Kenneth Petty, a relationship that has drawn media attention due to Petty’s past legal issues. Together, they have one son, nicknamed “Papa Bear,” who was born in 2020. While he does not qualify for the new savings accounts, Minaj continues to advocate for policies she believes will benefit future generations.
As Minaj’s citizenship application progresses, her evolving relationship with Trump and her advocacy for his policies continue to raise eyebrows, melding her musical career with her emerging political identity.
