Agencies Investigate James Comey Instagram '86 47' Threat Amid Political Backlash

Former FBI Director James Comey sparked controversy after posting and then deleting a photo on Instagram showing seashells arranged to display "86 47," a phrase interpreted by many conservatives as a coded threat against President Donald Trump, the 47th president. The number "86" is slang for "get rid of" and has been linked to calls for violence in this context. Comey claimed ignorance of the violent implications, stating he did not realize some associated "86" with violence, which critics widely disputed given his background. The post prompted investigations by the Secret Service, FBI, and Department of Homeland Security, while Trump supporters and conservative media condemned the act as a veiled assassination threat. Media figures across the spectrum acknowledged Comey’s error, with some calling it a "stupid thing," and others demanding accountability, including calls for legal consequences. The incident intensified partisan debate, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding Comey’s public actions and political symbolism in the lead-up to future presidential terms.