Fact Check: Did Trump praise Nicki Minaj during State of the Union speech?

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump delivered his first official State of the Union speech in his second term, and it became the longest in the US history, lasting approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes.

During his speech, he talked about economic turnaround, border security and immigration, foreign policy, and others. Following this, a rumor circulated online claiming that the POTUS praised Nicki Minaj during his speech. But is there any truth to this? Let us find out below.

Claim: Donald Trump praised Nicki Minaj during SOTU speech

An X account came up with a post on Wednesday, February 25, that read, "President Trump praises Nicki Minaj during the State of the Union: 'Not enough Black queens like Nicki in music today. She’s a superstar, believe me.'"

The post garnered more than 50,000 views and more than 4,500 likes at the time of filing this story.

During his SOTU speech on Tuesday, February 24, Trump said that America is experiencing a dramatic resurgence, proclaiming the nation is "back - bigger, better, richer, and stronger than ever before" after what he described as a "turnaround for the ages" in the first year of his second term.

The POTUS heavily emphasized economic achievements, boasting of plummeting inflation, rising incomes, a 'roaring' economy fueled by tax cuts, lower gas prices, a booming stock market, and restored energy dominance through policies.

He repeatedly highlighted border security and claimed that the southern border is now the "strongest and most secure in American history", with zero illegal admissions in recent months due to mass deportations and strict enforcement.

Fact Check: False, the post originated as satire

The claim made in the online post is false, as the post originated as satire from a self-described parody account. A review of the full official transcript of the speech by the President shows no mention of Nicki Minaj, rappers, or any related topics.

Interestingly, Trump did express admiration for Minaj at a separate White House Black History Month reception on February 18, 2026, while referring to her public support for his administration.

The social media post seems to be satirical, as it blends elements of an earlier event with the SOTU for humorous effect, as indicated by some replies acknowledging it's not real.

Positioning the address ahead of the 2026 midterms, the POTUS framed his agenda as ushering in a 'Golden Age' for America's 250th anniversary, and promised continued wins on affordability, healthcare reforms, fraud reduction, and national pride.

Trump concluded his speech with an optimistic vision of a 'bigger, better, brighter, bolder, and more glorious' future.