Amber Rose Speaking at RNC Sparks Republican Fury

The Republican National Committee's decision to invite celebrity personality Amber Rose to speak at the upcoming Republican National Convention (RNC) has ignited a firestorm of controversy within conservative circles, while also garnering support from some her most loyal fans.

CNN's Kristen Holmes first broke the news on X, formerly Twitter, stating, "RNC news: Amber Rose, a reality tv personality and model who shocked fans by endorsing Donald Trump for president earlier this year, is expected to speak at the Republican National Convention next week, a source familiar tells CNN."

Newsweek contacted Rose's management via email on Monday for further comment. When asked for comment, Trump's team sent Newsweek a link to Rose's X confirmation, which says, "It's True! I'm speaking at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee #MAGA" under "Trump 2024".

Rose, best known for her past relationship with rapper Kanye West and for spearheading the Los Angeles "SlutWalk"—a feminist movement against slut-shaming and sexual assault—surprised many when she endorsed former president Donald Trump in May 2024. She posted an image of herself with Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump on social media, captioning the photo "Trump 2024" with three American flag emojis.

The endorsement marked a significant shift in Rose's political stance. In a 2016 interview with The Cut, she had referred to Trump as a "f***ing idiot," adding at the time that she "really hope[s] he's not president."

The decision to include Rose as a speaker has led to a swift and vocal backlash from conservative figures and Republican voters alike, while also drawing support from those who see it as a strategic move to broaden the party's appeal.

Dr. Maria Peiro, a prominent conservative voice on social media, shared her dismay on X, stating, "Now, under the total Trump takeover of the RNC, the GOP will be represented at the convention by Amber Rose who believes in 'empowering the LGBTQ+ community', 'ending sexual, social injustice, derogatory labeling, and gender inequality'." Peiro then challenged Trump supporters, asking, "Conservatives who voted for Trump in the primary, how do you like being represented by a woke, pro-trans, socialist at the GOP convention?"

Other conservatives echoed these sentiments. A user operating under the handle @Conservative1AZ expressed disbelief at the choice, referring to Rose as an "OnlyFans chick" and imploring the GOP to "do better." Jenna Ellis, a former Trump legal advisor, took a swipe at the decision, sarcastically referencing comments made by Senator Marco Rubio about the party's platform reflecting its nominee.

However, not all reactions have been negative. Xavier DuRousseau, a supporter of Rose's appearance, expressed enthusiasm on X, stating, "I cannot wait to hear my friend stand on business and speak TRUTH at the RNC convention!!! Amber Rose is one of MANY Black Americans who finally woke up from the Left's lies after doing her own research about President Trump!" DuRousseau added, "The @GOP is about to put on a HISTORIC event."

Many online users have suggested that the decision to include Rose as a speaker may be an attempt by the Trump campaign to appeal to younger voters and showcase a more diverse range of supporters. This strategy appears to be dividing the party's base, with traditional conservatives feeling alienated while others celebrate the potential for growth.

As the RNC approaches, it remains to be seen how the party leadership will respond to the growing debate. Some speculate that the controversy could lead to a last-minute change in the convention lineup, while others believe the Trump-aligned RNC will stand firm in its decision.

As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Amber Rose's potential appearance at the RNC has become a lightning rod for broader discussions about the future of the Republican Party, the extent of Trump's influence over its direction, and the party's strategy for attracting a more diverse voter base in the upcoming election.

Update 07/08/24 6:54 p.m. ET: This article was updated with a statement from Trump's spokesperson.