Nicki Minaj speaks up to defend her relationship with an ex-con, Kenneth Petty. Minaj accused Trump's opponents of engaging in bullying and smear tactics, arguing that such efforts would not succeed. Minaj framed Trump's political survival in spiritual terms, telling the audience that "God is protecting him." In November 2015, Minaj said there were points Trump made that were not "so horrible," even as she criticized his tone. On stage, Minaj and Trump were seen holding hands and laughing, a moment that quickly circulated online.