Nicki Minaj is standing by her support for President Donald Trump and his administration after facing criticism over her increasingly public involvement with the White House. The rapper addressed the reaction during a Sept. 18 appearance on Fox News’ The Ingraham Angle, where she discussed her relationship with Trump and her work with the administration.
During the interview with host Laura Ingraham, Minaj said she was honored to have the opportunity to work with Trump and described him as someone who has inspired people. She also said she finds him fun, grounded and relatable, adding that she feels he listens to and understands people.
Minaj was directly asked whether she had anything to say to critics of her decision to work with the sitting president. She responded that she had “absolutely nothing” to say to them and said she did not believe she needed to make excuses for her position.
Her comments came as she participated in the Trump administration’s Million Dollar Pitch Competition through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Minaj served as one of the judges alongside entrepreneur Grant Cardone and Airbnb co-founder Joe Gebbia, while actor Dean Cain hosted the Sept. 18 finale in Washington, D.C.
The competition featured five small-business finalists competing for a combined $1 million in growth capital. The SBA had announced Minaj’s role earlier in September as part of the administration’s initiative highlighting small businesses.
Minaj’s relationship with Trump has become increasingly public in 2026. In January, she appeared alongside the president at a Trump Accounts event in Washington, D.C., where she referred to herself as his “No. 1 fan.” Her involvement with the administration has since expanded to include the SBA competition.
During the Fox News interview, Minaj also spoke about her career and her plans for future music and touring. When asked when fans could expect another tour following her Pink Friday 2 World Tour, she said she plans to return to the road after presenting her next body of work, while giving no specific release or tour date.
Minaj’s latest comments add to her recent public statements about her political involvement and her willingness to work directly with the Trump administration. Her participation in the small-business competition and her remarks about Trump have continued to draw public attention as she prepares for her next phase of music and business activities.
