Calls for Resignation of Los Altos Vice Mayor Over Controversial Post
The chairman of the California Republican Party, along with other conservatives, is urging the resignation of Los Altos Vice Mayor Larry Lang. This follows Lang’s repeated posts of “86 47” on social media, including replies to the state Republican Party’s Facebook content.
A recently deleted post, captured in a screenshot shared by the California Republican Party, showed Lang had updated his Facebook cover photo to feature an image of the “86/47” shell formation. This had drawn attention after former FBI Director James Comey was indicted last month related to a threat against the president.
Lang also commented on a Facebook post from the California Republican Party that included a segment featuring the party’s chairman, Colin Rankin. In that clip, Rankin stated that Democrats were lacking solutions and asserted that Californians are ready for a change after years of Democratic governance.
“This death threat aimed at Donald Trump is simply unacceptable. This elected official is either completely unaware of recent developments or is inciting violence that undermines our political framework,” Rankin remarked in a post on X that urged Lang to step down. He emphasized the need for a leader who would bring the community together.
In a related situation, an official in Kentucky resigned after allegedly calling for violence against Republicans on social media.
Meanwhile, the California Republican Party supported Rankin’s statements, asking Democrats to cease their rhetoric implying harm toward Trump and Republicans.
When contacted for his take on the “86 47” comment, Lang’s automated email reply indicated he was away until May 4. Notably, his Facebook cover photo was changed on Friday.
Lang holds the position of Deputy Mayor on the Los Altos City Council and is involved in several local boards. Inquiries to other council members did not receive timely responses.
Many on social media have demanded Lang’s resignation, including a conservative account which suggested he should seek psychiatric help because of the post.
Nick Poche, a spokesperson for the Republican National Committee, added that Democrats should retract their aggressive discourse to avoid encouraging extreme supporters. He expressed concerns over incidents like a recent thwarted shooting during a White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
James Comey, the former FBI director, was indicted for a second time over a May 2025 Instagram photo of the “86 47” shell formation, which had also appeared in Lang’s earlier Facebook post.
In some industries, “86” signifies getting rid of something, while Donald Trump is the current 47th President of the United States.
Comey later stated he interpreted the bullet as a general political statement and removed the post shortly after uploading it. He faces charges for making threats against the president, which could result in a maximum of 10 years imprisonment if convicted, as per the Justice Department.
