The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced an investigation into a large “8647” marking found on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This unusual sight was captured by a Reuters photographer from the Washington Monument before officials arrived to assess the situation. The numbers eight, six, and seven are visible, but the four is less clearly defined. In some parts, the grass appears to have turned brown, creating a stark contrast with the surrounding greenery.
“Any threat against the president is taken very seriously by the Department, and our U.S. Park Police will investigate this incident and hold those responsible accountable,” said a spokesperson for the Interior Department, describing the act as “deranged vandalism.”
The “8647” term is reportedly being used by opponents of President Donald Trump as a form of protest, drawing on restaurant slang “86,” which means to deny service, coupled with Trump’s label as the 47th U.S. president. Supporters of Trump and officials from the Justice Department argue that this phrase may imply a call to violent action.
This incident occurs as preparations ramp up at the National Mall for festivities honoring the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, set to unfold in the coming weeks. It coincides with a large UFC event in Washington, D.C., scheduled for Sunday—right around Flag Day and Trump’s 80th birthday.
The term is also relevant to ongoing legal issues for former FBI Director James Comey. He faces charges from federal prosecutors who allege he threatened the president with a social media post from 2025, which showcased seashells arranged to depict “8647.” Comey has since removed the post and asserts he was unaware of its implications, pledging to contest the charges on free speech grounds.
As for how the markings were created, that remains uncertain. The U.S. Park Police have stated that the cause of the grass discoloration is still under investigation, noting that samples have been taken for testing.
“Threatening the life of the President of the United States is a grave violation of our nation’s laws. The grand jury returned an indictment alleging James Comey did just that, at a time when this country has witnessed violent incitement followed by deadly actions against President Trump and other elected officials. The temperature needs to be turned down, and anyone who dials it up and threatens the life of the President will be held accountable,” remarked acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche in an April statement regarding the Comey case.
