US President Donald Trump and Rapper Nicki Minaj. Photo: The Independent

US President Donald Trump publicly praised rapper Nicki Minaj during a luncheon at the White House Rose Garden on Monday.

Trump described the Grammy-nominated artist as “so hot”, commending her talent and character.

Speaking during the event, the president singled out the 43-year-old rapper, calling her a close friend and someone admired by many.

“We also have a woman that is so respected and so hot and so great and such a great friend of, I don’t say conservative, I say of common sense,” Trump said before shifting briefly to remarks about Democratic Socialists and communism. Related News US imposes 12.5% tariff on Nigerian imports over forced labour claims Presidency blasts Atiku over US petitions against Tinubu Trump appraisal: APC chieftain seeks deeper security reforms