Nicki Minaj says a string of alleged swatting incidents and frustration with California officials played a major role in her public embrace of former President Donald Trump and the MAGA movement.
In a recent interview with TIME magazine, Minaj claimed that California Gov. Gavin Newsom failed to respond after she sought help following multiple swatting incidents at her Los Angeles-area home between 2022 and 2025. Swatting involves false emergency reports intended to trigger a large police response.
“He just completely ignored me, with all the money I spent in taxes,” Minaj told TIME, according to multiple reports. The rapper said the experience left her feeling abandoned by Democratic leaders she once aligned with politically.
Minaj said her outlook changed after receiving support from Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, who allegedly helped connect her with federal law enforcement and private security resources following another swatting scare in 2025. “I was shocked. I’d never seen anyone in politics treat me that way,” Minaj said.
The Grammy-nominated artist also discussed her growing involvement in conservative causes, including speaking publicly about violence against Christians in parts of Africa, particularly Nigeria. Minaj has previously appeared at events linked to the Trump administration where she highlighted attacks on Christian communities.
Her political shift has sparked backlash online and divided fans, especially given her earlier criticism of Trump-era immigration policies and past support for progressive causes. In recent months, however, Minaj has become increasingly vocal in support of Trump and conservative positions, while criticizing Democratic leaders and aspects of progressive politics.
Minaj suggested the criticism only strengthened her resolve to speak out publicly. “If they would have left me alone, maybe I would not have done so much,” she said in the TIME interview.
