US President Donald Trump described rapper Nicki Minaj as “respected” and “so hot” while introducing her during a White House Rose Garden luncheon on Monday.
Mr Trump singled out the Trinidadian-born rapper during his speech, praising both her talent and her support before inviting her to stand before the audience.
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“We also have a woman who is so respected and so hot and such a great friend of… I don’t say conservative, I say of common sense.”
He continued: “She’s a fantastic person, and she’s a woman that everybody respects. She’s got real talent. Nicki Minaj. Nicki, stand up, please.”
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Videos of the remarks quickly spread across social media, prompting praise from some supporters and criticism from others who questioned the President’s choice of words at an official White House event.
Nicki Minaj responds
Following the event, Ms Minaj shared photographs from the White House on her X account.
She captioned one of the posts: “Whoa!!!! #WhiteHouseBarbie with her favourite President of all time!!!
She also shared videos from the luncheon, including the moment Mr Trump introduced her before the audience.
A growing alliance
The White House appearance is the latest in a series of public engagements that have highlighted the rapper’s support for Mr Trump.
Premium Times previously reported that Mr Trump had praised Ms Minaj earlier this year during a Black History Month event in Washington, D.C., where he described her as a talented performer and commented on her appearance, including her “beautiful” skin and long nails.
Earlier this year, Ms Minaj attended the launch of the administration’s “Trump Accounts” savings initiative for children, where she described herself as “probably the President’s number one fan.” She also voiced support for Mr Trump’s proposed “Gold Card” immigration programme and said criticism over her political views had strengthened, rather than weakened, her support for him.
Her political stance has shifted from earlier years, when she largely avoided aligning herself publicly with political figures. In recent months, however, she has spoken more openly about issues including religious freedom, free speech and support for Mr Trump’s policies.
Mixed reactions
Mr Trump’s latest comments have sparked online discussion, with supporters describing the exchange as friendly and light-hearted. At the same time, critics argued that referring to a female guest as “so hot” during an official White House event was inappropriate. The remarks add to the growing public attention surrounding the relationship between the President and the Grammy-nominated rapper, whose appearances at White House events have become increasingly frequent since Mr Trump’s return to office.
