A social media post by former FBI Director James Comey is now at the center of a federal investigation after sparking concerns of a veiled threat against former President Donald Trump. The now-deleted Instagram post featured a photo of seashells arranged to read “86 47,” a phrase many interpreted as a call to assassinate the 47th president. Comey claims it was an innocent beach observation, but federal agencies are taking the message seriously.
Contents
The Meaning Behind ‘86 47’
The number combination “86 47” has been widely understood in political circles as coded language. “86” is often used slang for eliminating or getting rid of something, or in more serious contexts, to kill. “47” is a reference to Donald Trump’s status as the 47th president of the United States following his re-election. Together, critics say the numbers imply a deadly message.
Comey shared the post with the caption “Cool shell formation on my beach walk,” but the internet quickly lit up with outrage. The post was deleted within hours, but not before screenshots circulated widely. The symbolism was not lost on political figures and social media users, many of whom accused Comey of making a veiled death threat.
Federal Agencies Respond Swiftly
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Secret Service have launched an investigation into the post. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the inquiry, saying authorities “take any potential threat against the president seriously.” The FBI, now led by Trump ally Kash Patel, is reportedly cooperating with the Secret Service on the matter.
Investigators are assessing whether the post meets the criteria for a “true threat” under federal law. If it does, Comey could face charges for threatening the president, which carries significant criminal penalties. So far, no charges have been filed, and Comey has not been detained or officially questioned by law enforcement.
Political Fallout and Public Backlash
The controversy drew immediate responses from prominent conservative figures. Donald Trump Jr. called the post “a casual call for murder” and accused Comey of inciting violence. Rep. Andy Ogles and former Democratic congresswoman turned intelligence official Tulsi Gabbard echoed similar sentiments, demanding accountability and potential legal action.
President Trump himself addressed the post during a Fox News appearance, saying the decision to prosecute “is up to Pam [Bondi] and the great people” around him. The political divide surrounding the incident mirrors previous controversies involving threats or perceived threats against high-profile political figures.
Comey Denies Violent Intent
James Comey issued a brief statement after deleting the post, insisting he was unaware of any negative interpretation. “I had no idea that phrase could be seen as a threat. I oppose violence of any kind,” he said. Comey added that he often posts nature photos from his walks and didn’t intend to stir controversy.
Despite the explanation, critics argue that a former top law enforcement official should be more cautious with public messaging, especially given the volatile nature of modern political discourse. Supporters, however, suggest the backlash is politically motivated and that the interpretation of the post is being stretched beyond reason.
Legal and Cultural Implications
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between free speech protections and national security concerns. Under U.S. law, a threat against the president must be specific and credible to result in prosecution. Determining Comey’s intent—and whether a reasonable person would interpret the post as a threat—will be central to the investigation.
In a hyper-partisan climate, the phrase “86 47” has already taken on a life of its own in internet memes and political merchandise. What started as a cryptic shell display may now shape broader legal and cultural debates about online speech, political accountability, and the limits of metaphor in American discourse.
