A cryptic Instagram post by former FBI Director James Comey has triggered a political firestorm—and a federal investigation—after critics claimed it hinted at violence against former President Donald Trump.
Comey posted a photo of seashells arranged to form the numbers “86 47.” While the post was quickly deleted, its implications have sparked serious backlash from Trump allies, federal officials, and political commentators. Here’s what happened, why it’s controversial, and what comes next.
What did James Comey post?
On May 15, 2025, Comey shared a photo from a beach showing shells arranged into the number “8647.” He captioned it as a “shell formation” he spotted during a walk. Within hours, the post drew criticism for what some saw as an implied threat toward Trump.
Critics pointed to the phrase “eighty-six,” a slang term meaning to eliminate or get rid of something, and “47,” a reference to Trump’s status as the 47th president. Combined, they argued, the message implied a call for Trump’s assassination.
Why did this cause a controversy?
Trump supporters—including his son Donald Trump Jr.—accused Comey of promoting violence against the former president. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the post constituted a potential threat and confirmed that the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security were investigating the matter.
White House deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich called the message “a hit” on the president, while Representative Tim Burchett of Tennessee called for Comey’s arrest. Former Trump campaign manager Chris LaCivita said the FBI should have raided Comey’s home.
The Secret Service acknowledged the post and said it was “vigorously investigating” anything that could be seen as a threat.
What did James Comey say in response?
Comey denied the post was intended as a threat. In a follow-up message, he said he did not realize some people linked the number “86” with violence. “That didn’t occur to me,” he wrote. “I am opposed to violence in all circumstances, so I took it down.”
He also said he had assumed the number combination was a political message, not one that could be misinterpreted as a call to action.
Is this being taken seriously by the government?
Yes. The Secret Service confirmed it is actively reviewing the situation. The FBI, under Director Kash Patel, stated it is coordinating with the Secret Service and will offer full support.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard went further, saying Comey should be jailed over the post. While Gabbard does not have the authority to prosecute cases, her comments reflect how divisive the incident has become.
Why is this especially sensitive?
The controversy comes during a tense political season—and after two documented assassination attempts against Trump in the past year. In July 2024, a gunman grazed Trump’s ear at a campaign rally. Months later, another armed suspect was arrested near his Mar-a-Lago home.
In that context, federal agencies are treating any perceived threats with heightened seriousness.
What is James Comey’s history with Trump?
Comey led the FBI from 2013 to 2017. Trump fired him in May 2017 after the bureau opened an investigation into potential ties between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russian entities.
Since his dismissal, Comey has become a vocal critic of Trump. He wrote a bestselling book characterizing Trump as “morally unfit to be president” and has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans for his handling of the Clinton email investigation during the 2016 election.
Comey now works as an author of fiction and frequently posts on Instagram to promote his writing.
What happens next?
The investigation into Comey’s post is ongoing. While no charges have been filed, the situation has renewed debates over political rhetoric, free speech, and the responsibilities of former public officials.
If federal agencies determine the post constitutes a credible threat, Comey could face legal consequences. For now, the controversy continues to unfold online and in Washington.
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