Charges Against James Comey Detailed
In a recent statement, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche discussed the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, indicating it’s based on extensive evidence that goes beyond a specific social media post known as “86 47.”
During an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Blanche addressed the grand jury indictment, which claims that Comey “knowingly” made “threats to take life and inflict bodily harm” against former President Donald Trump in May 2025.
He commented, “This isn’t just a single Instagram post.” The indictment references Comey’s now-deleted Instagram post that featured a seashell image with the phrase “86 47,” asserting that such content could be understood as a serious threat to the president.
The term “86” is slang for removing something, while “47” presumably points to Trump as the 47th president.
The caption accompanying Comey’s post read, “Cold shells formed on beach walk.” He later deleted it, explaining he didn’t realize people might link those numbers to violence.
“I never thought about it,” Comey noted, adding he opposes violence and hence decided to remove the post.
NBC’s Kristen Welker pressed Blanche regarding how such an image could be perceived as a significant threat. He emphasized that the investigation into Comey lasted 11 months, uncovering a substantial body of evidence beyond just the Instagram posts.
Blanche emphasized that, “An Instagram post alone won’t lead to someone being indicted.” He further explained, when asked about proving intent, that it involves demonstrating intent through witness accounts, documents, and additional material—in essence, this isn’t solely about one social media post.
The case is set to progress in an open court, where all gathered evidence will be shared. “We’re talking about all kinds of evidence. That includes documents, witnesses, and everything we’ve compiled,” Blanche stated.
Welker queried if vendors selling products linked to the phrase “87 46” need to be alarmed regarding prosecution. Blanche replied, “Of course not,” clarifying that while many use threatening statements regarding Trump, not every instance leads to legal action. Each scenario requires thorough investigations and consideration of specific facts.
In response to the charges filed against him in late April, Comey asserted his innocence. “I’m still not afraid. I still believe in an independent federal judiciary. So let’s go,” he declared.
