Instagram Post by Comey Sparks Controversy
President Donald Trump on Friday denounced former FBI Director James Comey over an Instagram post that some allies of the president say conveyed a threatening message.
The now-removed image showed the number “8647” arranged in seashells on a beach, captioned: “Cool shell formation on my beach walk.” The post quickly drew scrutiny from online commentators, particularly among conservative circles.
Some supporters of the president, including political activist Laura Loomer, interpreted the post as a coded reference to violence. The slang term “86,” as noted by Merriam-Webster, can mean to eliminate or reject something. The number “47” is widely associated with Trump, who is seeking a second term and would be the 47th president.
Comey Denies Malicious Intent
Comey later responded to the backlash, stating that he did not intend any threat and that he opposes violence in all forms.
“It never occurred to me, but I oppose violence of any kind,” Comey wrote in a follow-up post on Instagram.
Trump Rejects Comey’s Explanation
In an interview segment aired on Fox News’ Special Report with Bret Baier, President Trump expressed skepticism over Comey’s defense.
“He knew exactly what that meant. A child knows what that meant,” Trump said. “If you’re the FBI director and you don’t know what that meant, that meant assassination.”
Trump, who dismissed Comey during his first administration, suggested the former official harbors lingering resentment.
“He apologized because he was hit—he’s a very bad guy,” the president added.
Officials and Agencies Respond
The situation has prompted a review by federal authorities. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the U.S. Secret Service is looking into the matter.
“Disgraced former FBI Director James Comey just called for the assassination of @POTUS Trump,” Noem posted on X.
A spokesperson for the Secret Service confirmed that the agency is aware of the incident and is taking it seriously.
“The Secret Service vigorously investigates anything that can be taken as a potential threat against our protectees,” said agency spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.
Sources familiar with the investigation say Comey is expected to be interviewed by the agency.
Legal and Investigative Outlook
David Kelley, attorney for James Comey, declined to comment on the incident.
Derek Mayer, a former senior official with the Secret Service, told ABC News that standard protocol would involve assessing the subject’s mental state, access to weapons, and recent behavior.
As of now, the Secret Service has not issued a public statement on the outcome of its investigation.
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