Former FBI Director James Comey found himself at the center of political controversy on Thursday after posting an image on Instagram featuring seashells arranged to form the numbers “86 47.” The photo, now deleted, quickly drew backlash from Republicans who interpreted it as a veiled threat toward President Donald Trump.
The number 86 is commonly used as slang for “getting rid of” or “eliminating” something, while 47 refers to Trump’s status as the 47th President of the United States. Together, the numbers 8647—or “86 47”—sparked speculation and alarm online, with many questioning, “what does 8647 mean?” and “what is 8647?”
Donald Trump Jr. condemned the post, claiming on social media, “Just James Comey casually calling for my dad to be murdered. This is who the Dem-Media worships. Demented!!!!” Others echoed similar sentiments, accusing Comey of inciting violence.
James Comey 8647 and Comey 86 47 began trending as social media users debated the meaning and implications of the post. Comey, who became a vocal critic of Trump after being fired by him in 2017, denied any malicious intent. In an updated James Comey tweet on Instagram, he explained, “I posted earlier a picture of some shells I saw today on a beach walk, which I assumed were a political message. I didn’t realize some folks associate those numbers with violence. It never occurred to me, but I oppose violence of any kind so I took the post down.”
Despite his clarification, officials responded swiftly. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem claimed in a post Thursday evening that DHS and the Secret Service were investigating James Comey’s 8647 post as a potential threat to Trump. “Disgraced former FBI Director James Comey just called for the assassination of @POTUSTrump,” she wrote. “DHS and Secret Service is investigating this threat and will respond appropriately.”
A Secret Service spokesperson confirmed to CNN that the agency was aware of the incident, stating, “The Secret Service vigorously investigates anything that can be taken as a potential threat against our protectees. We take this responsibility very seriously and we are aware of the social media posts in question.”
Current FBI Director Kash Patel also weighed in, noting that the bureau was in contact with the Secret Service and would provide assistance if needed. “We are aware of the recent tweet by former FBI Director James Comey, directed at President Trump,” he said. “Primary jurisdiction is with SS on these matters and we, the FBI, will provide all necessary support.”
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, speaking on Fox News, argued that Comey should be jailed over the post. “I’m very concerned for his life,” she said, referring to Trump, adding, “And James Comey, in my view, should be held accountable and put behind bars for this.” Gabbard also challenged Comey’s claim of ignorance, asserting that someone with his background should know the potential interpretations of “86 meaning” in this context.
It’s worth noting that Gabbard has no official role in the investigation and lacks the authority to bring charges in domestic legal matters.
James Comey previously led the FBI during high-profile investigations, including the probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election and the inquiry into Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server. Both efforts drew intense scrutiny from across the political spectrum, and neither resulted in criminal charges. Trump fired Comey in May 2017, early in his first term, calling him a “grandstander” and a “showboat.”
The incident has reignited debate about the blurred lines between political expression and perceived threats, especially as public figures like Comey and Trump remain locked in a highly polarized landscape.
