The Federal Investigation Director has launched an inquiry into remarks made by former FBI director James Comey, which appeared to threaten President Donald Trump.
On Thursday, Comey shared a post on social media featuring an image of Shell Formation from a beach, which quickly ignited backlash. People connected the phrase “8647” in his message to a suggestion of the president’s removal or death.
Comey, in a follow-up, stated, “I didn’t realize some individuals were interpreting those numbers as violent. It never happened to me, but I deleted the post because I oppose all forms of violence.”
Homeland Security Section Kristi Noem announced she would address the situation alongside the US Secret Service, emphasizing how serious the matter was. She commented, “It’s disgraceful that Comey seemingly called for the assassination of @potus Trump. The DHS and the Secret Service are looking into this threat and will act accordingly.”
FBI Director Kash Patel also noted he was coordinating with the Secret Service, reaffirming their primary jurisdiction over this type of matter.
Responses came from Trump’s son, with Donald Trump Jr. stating, “James Comey is casually calling for my father to be murdered. This is someone deemed unfit!”
It’s noteworthy that Comey was replaced by Christopher Ray during Trump’s first term, and Ray resigned shortly before Trump’s second term began. Patel was nominated by Trump at the start of that term.
