Nicki Minaj is encouraging Christian leaders to bring politics into their sermons as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
The Grammy-nominated rapper shared her views Saturday, Oct. 10, during the X Takeover event in Austin, Texas. The gathering took place at Tesla’s Gigafactory Texas facility and brought together supporters of Elon Musk’s companies.
Minaj used her appearance to discuss religion, political participation and the importance of Christians making their voices heard.
“I think Christians as a whole need to wake up and they need to wake up now,” Minaj said.
She continued, “I think that the elections should be incorporated into what they’re preaching even at church during this time, because these are such important elections, you know?”
Her remarks come weeks before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, when voters will determine control of Congress and several state offices.
Minaj Continues to Encourage Political Participation
The rapper’s latest comments follow several public statements encouraging Americans to participate in the upcoming elections.
On Oct. 6, Minaj urged her millions of social media followers to check their voter registration deadlines.
“We interrupt this broadcast for an important message,” she wrote on X. “Some states close THIS WEEK for the MIDTERM ELECTION on Nov 3. Check yours at https://vote.gov/register.”
She followed the message with additional encouragement for her supporters.
“Your voice is needed now more than ever,” Minaj wrote. “I believe in you.”
Her political involvement has become increasingly visible following her public support for President Donald Trump and the Republican Party.
During a September interview with Lara Trump, Minaj encouraged younger Americans to vote Republican. She also emphasized the importance of participating in elections beyond presidential races.
The shift has drawn attention because Minaj previously criticized Trump’s immigration policies.
In December 2025, she appeared at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference alongside Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
During the conversation, Minaj praised Trump and Vice President JD Vance. She also defended her changing political views.
Her appearance sparked criticism from some fans and civil rights advocates who disagreed with her growing conservative alignment.
Should Politics Have a Place in Church?
Minaj’s suggestion also raises questions about the relationship between religious institutions and political campaigns.
Churches have long played a role in American political organizing, particularly during the civil rights movement. However, discussing political issues differs legally from endorsing specific candidates.
Under the Johnson Amendment, tax-exempt religious organizations generally cannot endorse or oppose candidates for public office.
In July 2025, the Internal Revenue Service supported allowing certain political endorsements during religious services.
However, a federal judge dismissed the related lawsuit in March 2026, leaving the longstanding restrictions in place.
Minaj’s comments focused on incorporating election discussions into sermons rather than explicitly instructing pastors to endorse candidates.
During the Austin event, she also discussed her concerns about violence against Christians in Nigeria.
The rapper explained that her Nigerian pastor helped establish her personal connection to the country.
She encouraged other entertainers and influencers to speak publicly about religious persecution and support affected communities.
With Election Day approaching, Minaj appears determined to use her celebrity platform to encourage political engagement.
Her latest remarks also place her within a broader national debate over religion, voting and the responsibilities of faith leaders.