On Wednesday, rapper Nicki Minaj made headlines by declaring herself "the number one fan" of former U.S. President Donald Trump. She proudly unveiled a Gold Card—a special visa rolled out by the Republican administration that grants U.S. residency and a fast track to citizenship for wealthy immigrants, as reported by the BBC.
This blend of spectacle, politics, and immigration unfolded during an event in Washington, D.C., centered around the so-called Trump Accounts. The program, promoted by the government, aims to establish trust funds for American children. Trump invited Minaj to join him on stage, holding her hand in front of cameras while joking about mimicking her iconic long fingernails.
The artist, originally from Trinidad and Tobago, boldly stated, "I'm probably the number one fan of the president, and that's not going to change," insisting that criticism only fuels her support for him.
Minaj further stirred controversy on social media. In a thread posted on X, she displayed her Trump Gold Card, adorned with the president's image, alongside a simple caption: "Welp..."
In another post, she went on to say that she is completing the paperwork for her citizenship "by order" of her "wonderful, funny, and charming president," emphasizing that the card was granted "for free."
The government was quick to express gratitude. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly thanked the singer for helping to promote the program, calling it "a singular moment in American history" for, in his words, democratizing the benefits of economic growth and private ownership.
This enthusiasm stands in stark contrast to Minaj's recent past. Back in 2018, she harshly criticized Trump's hardline immigration policies and family separations, recalling her own experience of arriving in the United States as a child. "I can't imagine the horror of being in a strange place and having your parents taken away," she had written, according to the BBC.
The Trump Gold Card, launched in December, is designed as a quick pathway for affluent immigrants, requiring a payment of one million dollars plus an additional fee for permanent residency.
The program has faced scrutiny due to its emergence amid immigration raids, deportations, and a general tightening of immigration policy—a situation familiar to thousands of Cubans both on the island and abroad who continue to struggle with regularizing their status or reuniting with their families.
Understanding the Trump Gold Card Program
What is the purpose of the Trump Gold Card?
The Trump Gold Card is intended to provide a fast track to U.S. residency and citizenship for wealthy immigrants, requiring a significant financial investment.
How does Nicki Minaj's support impact the Trump administration?
Nicki Minaj's endorsement and public display of the Gold Card help promote the program, potentially influencing public perception and increasing interest among affluent immigrants.
Why has the Trump Gold Card program been criticized?
The program has been criticized for favoring wealthy immigrants while stricter immigration policies and enforcement actions continue to affect less affluent individuals, particularly during a period of heightened deportations and family separations.