Nicki Minaj recently announced that her citizenship paperwork is nearing completion following her appearance at a Donald Trump event. The rapper, who immigrated to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago at the age of five, shared this update on social media after the event promoting the president’s new IRA-style savings accounts for children.
During her remarks, Minaj expressed her gratitude towards Trump, stating, “Finalizing that citizenship paperwork as we speak as per MY wonderful, gracious, charming President.” She also shared a photo of a Trump “gold card,” which is rumored to provide citizenship for a fee of $1 million. This post seems to reference petitions suggesting she should be deported back to her country of birth, which have circulated in response to her public persona.
In 2018, Minaj disclosed her immigrant status in a Facebook post, highlighting the struggles faced by children separated from their parents during the Trump administration’s strict immigration policies. She reflected on her own experiences, stating, “I can’t imagine the horror of being in a strange place & having my parents stripped away from me at the age of 5.”
Minaj’s recent support for Trump appears to contrast with her earlier criticisms. In a 2020 interview with Rolling Stone, she described the president as “funny,” yet expressed her concern over the treatment of immigrant children. “I couldn’t imagine a little child going through all of that,” she remarked.
Now, Minaj seems to embrace her role as a supporter of Trump, even labeling herself his “No. 1 fan.” She emphasized that negative reactions from others only strengthen her resolve to support him. “We’re not going to let them get away with bullying him and the smear campaigns,” she asserted.
During the event, Trump praised Minaj, calling her “the greatest and most successful female rapper in history,” acknowledging her significant impact on the music industry. He noted her contributions, stating that she, along with other supporters, donated substantial amounts to the new savings accounts aimed at children.
The IRA-style accounts, part of Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” are designed to provide financial support for children born during his second administration, specifically from 2025 to 2028. Each account will receive an initial deposit of $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury, with the option for parents to contribute up to $5,000 annually. Funds can be withdrawn for education, housing, or business purposes but will be taxed as ordinary income.
Minaj’s personal life also adds a layer to her public persona. She is married to Kenneth Petty, a man with a controversial past, having served four years in prison for attempted rape. The couple welcomed their son, nicknamed “Papa Bear,” in 2020, a child who, unfortunately, does not qualify for the new accounts due to his birth year.
This latest chapter in Minaj’s life underscores her evolving relationship with politics, celebrity, and her immigrant background, reflecting the complex dynamics of her career and public persona. As she navigates these waters, her experiences resonate with many who share similar journeys, making her story all the more significant in today’s socio-political climate.
Minaj’s journey from an immigrant child to a prominent figure supporting a polarizing political figure illustrates the multifaceted nature of identity in the public eye. As the political landscape continues to shift, her voice remains a powerful one, attracting both support and criticism.
