Joe Budden has publicly declared he’s “done” supporting Nicki Minaj following her surprise onstage interview with Erika Kirk at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest on December 21, 2025. The podcaster, known for his candid takes on hip-hop culture, made the announcement during a recent episode of The Joe Budden Podcast, stating Minaj’s participation in the conservative event—where she praised Donald Trump and JD Vance—was the “last candle on the cake” for him. “I’m out. I’m done. That was it. Sorry, I’m gone,” Budden said, addressing Minaj and her fans (the Barbz) directly: “Sorry Barbz, sorry Nicki. Don’t call me. Don’t text me. It is what it is.” He criticized the appearance as “very anti-Black” and at odds with Minaj’s fanbase, particularly highlighting TPUSA’s anti-transgender stance. The remarks have sparked intense debate online, with reactions ranging from support for Budden’s stance to accusations of hypocrisy, as Minaj’s political shift continues to polarize the rap community.

Minaj’s AmericaFest spot came as a surprise guest during the event’s final day in Phoenix, where she joined Erika Kirk—CEO of Turning Point USA and widow of the late founder Charlie Kirk—for a conversation on politics, faith, and culture. The rapper praised Trump as “handsome” and a source of hope, called JD Vance an “amazing role model” (with an awkward “assassin” slip quickly brushed off by Kirk), and criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom. She also spoke on Christian persecution in Nigeria and encouraged free thinking. The appearance aligned with Minaj’s recent conservative leanings, including Trump support and criticism of industry figures. Kirk welcomed her warmly, and the crowd gave a standing ovation, but backlash followed swiftly from some in hip-hop circles who view TPUSA as conflicting with progressive values.

Budden’s response was unfiltered: He expressed disappointment, saying Minaj must have known the implications but “doesn’t really give a f*ck.” Co-hosts echoed confusion over the alignment with an organization seen as anti-LGBTQ+, noting Minaj’s concerts draw heavy queer support. “Didn’t see ‘All little girls matter?’ It was a hot mess on that stage,” Budden added, calling it incompatible with Black community values. His decision marks a shift from past cordiality—Minaj appeared on his podcast in 2022 for a lengthy interview.

Reactions online are split: Some praise Budden for holding Minaj accountable (“Finally someone said it”), while others defend her free speech (“Nicki’s allowed to evolve—cancel culture dead”). Barbz fired back with memes and “irrelevant” jabs at Budden, while neutral observers note the irony in hip-hop’s political divides. Minaj hasn’t responded directly, staying active on X with holiday posts and music teases. The drama underscores ongoing tensions around celebrity politics in rap, where alignments can fracture longtime alliances.

As 2025 wraps, Minaj’s choices— from MAGA nods to event appearances—continue reshaping her public image, while Budden’s podcast remains a key voice in culture critique. Whether this rift heals or hardens remains seen, but it’s clear: In hip-hop, politics hit personal. #JoeBuddenNickiMinaj #AmericaFestDrama #HipHopPolitics