Trump says he ‘loves’ Nicki Minaj, praises her ‘long nails’ at Black History Month reception

Trump applauds Minaj’s public backing at the White House event, calling her influential and 'so beautiful' during remarks
PUBLISHED FEB 19, 2026
Donald Trump spoke about Nicki Minaj during a Black History Month reception at the White House (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
Donald Trump spoke about Nicki Minaj during a Black History Month reception at the White House (Win McNamee/Getty Images)


WASHINGTON, DC: Donald Trump drew attention to his growing rapport with rapper Nicki Minaj while addressing guests at a Black History Month reception at the White House on Wednesday, February 18.

The president took a moment during his remarks to praise the Grammy-nominated artist, complimenting her appearance and singling out her long manicured nails. He also suggested that the rapper’s political backing carried weight, noting that she “gets it” when it comes to his agenda.

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 18: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a Black History Month reception in the East Room of the White House on February 18, 2026 in Washington, DC. The president issued a proclamation recognizing Black History Month on Feb. 3. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
President Donald Trump delivered remarks during a Black History Month reception at the White House on February 18, 2026, in Washington, DC (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Trump praises Nicki Minaj at White House Black History Month reception

While speaking in the East Room, Trump asked the crowd, “How about Nicki Minaj? Do we love Nicki Minaj? I love Nicki Minaj.” He recalled her recent visit to Washington and described her as “so beautiful,” adding that he had complimented her directly.

Trump appeared especially fascinated by her long acrylic nails. “Her nails are like that long,” he said, gesturing with his hands. “I said, ‘Nicki, are they real?’ She didn’t want to get into that.” He then joked that he might grow his own nails because he admired hers so much.

Beyond her appearance, Trump emphasized her support for him, saying she “gets it, more importantly,” a remark that drew applause from some in attendance.

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 28: Musician Nicki Minaj joins U.S. President Donald Trump on stage during the Treasury Department's Trump Accounts Summit at Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium on January 28, 2026 in Washington, DC.
Nicki Minaj stood alongside President Donald Trump at the Trump Accounts Summit in Washington, DC, on January 28, 2026 (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

Nicki Minaj’s first meeting with Trump at Trump Accounts Summit

Minaj first met Trump at the Trump Accounts Summit in Washington on January 28. During that appearance, she joined him on stage and expressed strong support for the president.

“I am probably the president’s No. 1 fan,” Minaj said at the event. “And that’s not going to change. What people have to say, it does not affect me at all. It actually motivates me to support him more.”

She also defended him against critics, stating that “smear campaigns” would not work and adding that she believed he had significant backing and divine protection.

Following her appearance, Trump reportedly presented Minaj with one of his $1 million gold visa cards tied to the administration’s newly introduced investment initiative.



Growing political support from Minaj sparks reactions

In recent months, Minaj has been increasingly vocal about her political stance, drawing both praise and backlash online. Supporters within the MAGA movement have welcomed her endorsement, while critics have questioned her alignment with the administration.

Earlier in February, Minaj reiterated her support during an interview, saying that the criticism she faces only strengthens her resolve.

Trump’s remarks at the Black History Month reception once again placed their unlikely alliance in the spotlight, blending pop culture with politics in a moment that quickly circulated across social media.

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