Critics of rapper Nicki Minaj had some choice words for the vocal supporter of President Donald Trump after she delivered her advice to young voters during a Fox News appearance Saturday.
Speaking on “My View with Lara Trump,” Minaj, whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, gave what at first seemed to be a measured take on the importance of people exercising their right to vote.
“You know how much you want a say in what happens, and realize that the only way to have that is by voting,” Minaj said. “Not just voting for the president, but just voting in, you know, all the local elections.”
Minaj then implored voters to do their research on candidates in their area and make an informed decision.
“You guys are so blessed to be able to vote, and you have to, more than ever now, you have to take advantage of that ability that you guys have,” Minaj said.
If she had stopped there, Minaj’s advice would have seemed like a down-the-middle message for everyone to vote no matter who it is for, but the rapper undercut it all with a partisan plea.
“And, vote red, nah,” Minaj said, cackling.
“Amen,” Trump said. “I feel like we can end it there; I do have one more question. Great sales pitch to the voters of America, Nicki, I love it.”
Critics quickly pointed out that Minaj is not an American citizen, having been born in Trinidad and Tobago, and cannot legally vote in U.S. elections.
Others pointed out that young voters, even conservative ones, do not typically watch Fox News. Some even accused Minaj of trying to cozy up to Trump as a way to secure a presidential pardon for her brother, Jelani Maraj, who was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison on charges of predatory sexual assault against a child and endangering the welfare of a child in 2017.
It should be noted that Maraj was convicted of state charges in Nassau County, New York, and cannot be pardoned by the president.
Take a look at reactions to Minaj’s interview with Laura Trump below: