Comey Defends Controversial Instagram Post
Former FBI director James Comey addressed his “86 47” Instagram post during an appearance on MSNBC, stating that the post was not significant and asserting that the Trump administration had not faced any threats as a result.
Comey shared a photo on Instagram featuring a shell arranged to create the phrase “86 47.” In this context, “86” typically suggests the removal of something or someone, while “47” refers to Trump being the 47th president. Some perceived it as a threat, while others interpreted it as Comey’s clever political commentary, arguing he had no violent intentions.
During the broadcast, Comey mentioned receiving a call from the Secret Service after posting the image. “By the time I posted a photo, they had audited me in an extraordinary way. I’ve been under investigation since he fired me,” he explained.
He added, “I regret distracting and the controversy it caused. But honestly, it’s hard to regret something that seems completely innocent to me.”
Reflecting on the post, Comey remarked, “I didn’t have a gut check. I’ve done a lot of research and audits in this era. It’s not my first rodeo. There’s a relationship there that he can’t overcome in a strange way.” He recalled that he had felt distant from Trump, focusing instead on his life as a grandfather and author. The post was simply a lighthearted way to express his views.
He further explained that he noticed the shell after his wife left the beach and recalled that in restaurant slang, “86” means to take something off the menu. “As a kid, I thought it meant to leave or abandon,” Comey said.
With a hint of disbelief, he continued, “I really didn’t view it as a political statement. It seemed like a clever way to express a viewpoint. The shells looked the same in color for each letter… it took some effort to arrange. I struggle to believe it was made with dark intentions.”
When it came to the possibility of Trump politicizing the government against him, Comey said he would defend himself, asserting, “I’m not scared. I believe in the rule of law in this country. It’s under attack, but it still exists.”
In response to Comey’s remarks, Harrison Fields, a deputy news agency official, stated, “I was embarrassed by Comey, who was fired by President Trump for his unprofessionalism.” He further criticized Comey’s recent statements, suggesting they reflected a commitment to division rather than loyalty to the nation. Fields also indicated that appropriate investigations were underway regarding Comey’s actions.
Kash Patel, the FBI director, noted on X that the Secret Service was already involved following Comey’s social media post regarding Trump. He assured that they would provide all necessary support to the FBI.
This isn’t the first confrontation between Comey and Trump; their rivalry has persisted since Comey’s dismissal in 2017. Comey, who once identified as a Republican, supported Biden and Harris in the 2020 and 2024 elections.
