Nicki Minaj found herself at the center of an uncomfortable moment over the weekend after accidentally using the word “assassin” while praising Vice President JD Vance during a live appearance in Arizona, USA Today reports.
The 43-year-old rapper appeared as a surprise guest at a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix on December 21, where she joined Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, on stage for a Q&A session with supporters.
The Moment That Stopped the Room
While addressing young men in the audience and speaking about political leadership, Minaj began praising figures she described as role models.
“Dear young men, you have amazing role models, like our handsome, dashing president,” she said.
“And you have amazing role models like the assassin, JD Vance, our vice president, and when I say that…”
Minaj abruptly stopped mid-sentence, visibly realizing the gravity of what she had just said.
The room fell silent for several seconds as the pop star appeared shaken by the slip of the tongue.
Erika Kirk Steps In With Grace
Erika Kirk quickly intervened, reassuring Minaj and attempting to ease the tension.
“Trust me, there’s nothing new under the sun that I have not heard, so you’re fine,” Kirk said. “Yes, we did, I love you. I love you.”
Kirk, 37, continued offering comfort as Minaj remained on stage, clearly upset.
“You have to laugh about it,” Kirk added.
“Truly, I’ve been called every single thing. God is so good, you let it roll right off your back. If the internet wants to clip it, who cares?”
She went on to defend Minaj’s character, emphasizing that the comment did not reflect her intent.
“I love this woman. She has a soul and a heart for the Lord. Words are words, but I know her heart, and I do not judge that.”
Context Makes Slip Especially Sensitive
The moment carried extra weight given the tragic circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk’s death.
The conservative activist and father of two was assassinated in September while answering questions at a Turning Point USA event.
Two days after the killing, authorities arrested 22-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah, charging him with multiple offenses including aggravated murder and witness tampering.
Robinson appeared in court earlier this month, where his legal team argued for limiting media access, claiming extensive coverage could influence potential jurors.
After being reassured, Minaj thanked Erika Kirk and resumed her remarks, steering the conversation back to her original message. While the slip-up quickly spread online, Kirk’s calm response helped prevent the moment from spiraling further during the live event.
The incident has since sparked debate on social media, with reactions ranging from criticism to praise for how both women handled an undeniably awkward and emotionally charged situation.