Former FBI Director Comey Under Federal Investigation Over Alleged Threat to Trump

Former FBI Director James Comey is under federal investigation after posting a photo on Instagram showing seashells arranged to form the number "8647," which many critics interpreted as a veiled threat against President Donald Trump, the 47th president. The number "86" is American slang for "to get rid of" or "eliminate," and combined with "47," it was seen by Trump supporters and officials as a coded call for violence or assassination. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the Department of Homeland Security, Secret Service, and FBI are investigating the post. Comey denied any malicious intent, stating he was unaware of the violent connotations and that the photo was simply an interesting shell formation; he deleted the post and reiterated his opposition to violence. The post sparked sharp criticism from Trump allies, including Donald Trump Jr. and White House officials, who called it a dangerous and inflammatory message, especially given the president's travel abroad. The incident has intensified political tensions amid concerns about threats to public officials.