National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard stated that former FBI Director James Comey should face serious consequences for a recent Instagram post. Earlier on Thursday, Comey shared a photo of shells arranged to show the numbers “86 47.” Some interpret “86” as a euphemism for eliminating someone, while “47” is believed to refer to the 47th president of the United States.
In the caption, Comey mentioned, “A cool shell formation on my beach walk…” but later deleted the post.
During an appearance on “Jesse Watters Primetime,” Gabbard expressed her thoughts on the matter.
Comey’s post has drawn criticism as some believe it might be an alarming message aimed at the White House.
After deleting the image, Comey remarked that he simply intended to share photos of shells and did not mean for the numbers to be connected to violence. He emphasized his opposition to violence and noted that he was unaware of the potential implications of his post.
Gabbard, however, maintained that Comey and his associates need to clarify their intentions in a legal context. She stressed that the law must hold accountable individuals who threaten the president or send signals that could be interpreted as calls for violence.
According to Gabbard, “The rule of law requires accountability for those who pose a direct threat to POTUS.”
She expressed that Comey’s post deeply concerned her, particularly given previous assassination attempts against the president. “I am seriously worried about the president’s safety. In my opinion, Comey should be held accountable for this,” she stated.
Gabbard also remarked on Comey’s significant influence, suggesting it could lead people to take him seriously.
Following the deletion of the post, sources within the Secret Service informed Fox News Digital that the agency was aware of the situation and would be investigating it further.
The White House condemned Comey’s post, with Deputy Chief of Staff and Interior Secretary Taylor Budwich expressing deep concern over the implications of Comey’s actions. “While President Trump is abroad, Comey’s words give the impression of a threat against a sitting president,” Budwich noted.
Comey, who was dismissed from the FBI during Trump’s first term, did not provide any comment to Fox News Digital on Thursday.
