Former FBI director James Comey has stirred controversy online after posting a photograph that many interpreted as a threat towards President Donald Trump. The image featured the numbers “86 47” carved into beach sand alongside shells, captioned with, “A cool shell formation on my beach walk…”
To some, these numbers might not raise any eyebrows, but “86” often implies a call to eliminate someone, while “47” is believed to reference the 47th president of the United States.
After facing backlash for his post, including calls for his arrest from at least one lawmaker, Comey subsequently deleted it and issued a statement addressing the situation. He explained, “I posted some photos I found on the beach. I didn’t realize that some would interpret those numbers as a political message linked to violence. It wasn’t my intention, and I deleted the post because I stand against any form of violence.”
While the FBI, where Comey served until being dismissed by Trump, has not made an official comment, it was clear that senior agents were aware of the post. Trump’s current FBI director, Kash Patel, confirmed on social media that the agency was “aware” of Comey’s actions.
Patel added, “We’re in contact with the Secret Service and Director Karan. The Secret Service takes the lead on these matters, with the FBI supporting as needed.”
Meanwhile, as Comey was facing scrutiny, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budwich reacted on social media, noting, “While President Trump is overseas, Comey’s post can easily be seen as a threat.”
Senator Tim Burchett, a Republican from Tennessee, further fueled the conversation by calling for Comey’s arrest in a tweet.
