President Donald Trump hosted rapper Nicki Minaj at the White House on January 28, 2026, to discuss financial initiatives for youth. During the meeting, the president presented Minaj with a Trump Gold Card, which she later showcased on her social media platforms.
Minaj expressed her gratitude for the gesture and described herself as a significant supporter of the current administration. The card itself is a souvenir version of a premium visa program designed for high-net-worth international investors.
White House officials were quick to clarify that the item given to the artist was a memento rather than a legal document. The official Gold Card program typically requires a substantial financial investment of $1 million to expedite residency.
Minaj has maintained legal permanent resident status in the United States for approximately two decades. She shared with her followers that she is currently in the final stages of completing her official citizenship paperwork.
The interaction marks a notable shift in the public relationship between the rapper and the president. In previous years, Minaj had been vocal in her criticism of certain immigration policies enacted during Trump's first term.
The White House social media accounts amplified Minaj's post, signaling a positive reception of her public alignment. This event took place as part of a broader push to promote savings accounts for children across the country.
Critics of the Gold Card program argue that it creates a tiered system that favors wealthy applicants over others. Supporters maintain that the initiative is a vital tool for attracting significant capital and talent to the American economy.
Minaj, who was born in Trinidad and Tobago, has become an increasingly visible figure in political discussions recently. Her appearance at the White House highlights the administration's efforts to engage with high-profile cultural icons.
The souvenir card serves as a symbolic token of her participation in the day's policy discussions. Observers noted the contrast between this friendly exchange and the rapper's past political commentary.
As Minaj nears the end of her citizenship process, her involvement in federal initiatives remains a point of public interest. The administration continues to utilize celebrity platforms to reach diverse audiences regarding economic and social programs.
The Gold Card program remains a cornerstone of the administration's approach to high-value immigration. While the souvenir version holds no legal weight, it has generated significant conversation regarding the intersection of celebrity and policy.
This meeting underscores the evolving nature of political endorsements and public relations in the current political landscape. Both parties appear to benefit from the visibility generated by such high-profile interactions at the executive level.