Nicki Minaj Faces Online Debate Over Citizenship Amid Political Support

The global superstar known for her chart-topping hits and iconic ‘Barbie’ persona is currently facing an unusual kind of spotlight. Despite living in the United States since the age of five, Nicki Minaj has recently ignited a firestorm of online debate surrounding her legal status in the country.

As one of the most prominent figures in the music industry, Minaj’s personal history has always drawn public interest. However, this scrutiny has intensified in recent weeks, especially among her critics, following her public support for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. In the wake of her political alignments, netizens—including TV personalities—are actively debating her citizenship status and even calling for her deportation.

Perez Hilton Sparks Viral Debate on TikTok

The conversation around Minaj’s citizenship reached a fever pitch following a viral TikTok post by celebrity gossip columnist Perez Hilton. In his video, Hilton addressed the mounting speculation surrounding Minaj’s background and recent political statements. He highlighted the irony of her support for certain policies while her own status, he claimed, remains technically precarious.

“She’s not a US citizen,” Hilton said after researching the “Bang Bang” singer. He added that it was “interesting” that Minaj had lived in the country for over 35 years without naturalizing. Soon after, a flurry of questions appeared on X (formerly Twitter), with users asking, “Is Nicki Minaj a US citizen?” and suggesting, “If the artist is not, then we the people should deport her.”

Nicki Minaj Admits She Is Not a US Citizen

During a TikTok Live session in September 2024, Minaj addressed the rumors, candidly admitting to her fans that she has never officially become a United States citizen. “I’m not a citizen of America. Isn’t that crazy?” she said, expressing frustration and a touch of humor as she reflected on her situation.

Minaj vented, “You would think that with the millions of dollars that I’ve paid in taxes to this country that I would have been given an honorary citizenship many, many, many thousands of years ago.” Despite her non-citizen status, Minaj remains proud of her roots, reminding her fans, “I was born on a beautiful island called Trinidad and Tobago.” Her revelation came as a shock to many who assumed she would have received a U.S. passport for her massive contributions.

A Lawful Permanent Resident

Many fans and onlookers are curious how Minaj has legally remained in the U.S. since childhood. It appears she is a lawful permanent resident, commonly known as a green card holder. This status allows individuals to live and work in the United States indefinitely, although it does not grant the right to vote or hold certain public offices.

Minaj is not alone in this situation. Fellow superstar Rihanna, who hails from Barbados, is also a non-U.S. citizen and has no plans to change that.

Petition to Deport Minaj Gains Traction

After Minaj publicly voiced her political support for Trump and the “Make America Great Again” movement, calls for her deportation and false claims that she is an illegal immigrant began circulating. Nevertheless, one TikToker quickly debunked these rumors, affirming Minaj “did the process the way you’re supposed to do it.”

Despite this, an online petition to deport Minaj back to Trinidad and Tobago has gained more than 20,000 signatures. The petition urges immigration officials to review her residency status due to her “harmful rhetoric.”

The Bottom Line

Nicki Minaj continues to spark public debate, not only for her music and outspoken personality but now also for her immigration status and political views. As the story continues to develop, one thing remains clear: the Queen of Rap remains unapologetically herself, regardless of her citizenship status.
https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/nicki-minaj-not-us-citizen-rap-queens-citizenship-issue-resurfaces-amid-calls-deportation-1767161