Former FBI Director Faces Charges Over Social Media Post
In a new twist involving former FBI Director James Comey, a recent indictment has emerged concerning a year-old social media post. The Justice Department claims the post constituted a threat against President Trump, raising questions about the implications of online expressions.
Earlier this week, a grand jury indicted Comey for allegedly making a threat against the life of President Trump. The indictment centers around a social media post from May 2025 where Comey shared an image of seashells arranged to form the numbers “8647” on a North Carolina beach.
The number “86” is slang for “get rid of,” while “47” refers to Trump being the 47th president. This numerical combination has sparked debate about its interpretation.
“I’m still innocent, I’m still not afraid, and I still believe in the independent federal judiciary, so let’s go,” Comey said in a Substack video response to the charges, which could lead to a 10-year prison sentence.
Since being dismissed by Trump in 2017, Comey has been a vocal critic of the president. He asserted last year that the shell arrangement was intended as a political message, not a violent one. “I didn’t realize some folks associate those numbers with violence,” he stated. The post was quickly removed following backlash.
The Trump administration has previously pursued legal action against Comey, including a recent case concerning his 2020 congressional testimony. This case was dismissed due to an improperly appointed prosecutor.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche commented at a press conference, saying the intent would be proven through various evidence, despite the apology and post removal.
Origins and Political Use of “86”
The term “86” originated in 1930s soda-counter slang, meaning an item was out of stock. Over time, it evolved to mean “get rid of” or “refuse service.” Merriam-Webster highlights its use in the service industry, although its definition of “to kill” is not officially recognized.
The phrase entered political discourse in 2018 when Sarah Huckabee Sanders was removed from a restaurant. “86” was used in a note by staff, sparking controversy.
Similar uproar occurred in 2020 when Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer displayed an “8645” pin, leading to questions about its intent. The Detroit News reported that her team dismissed the allegations, citing the phrase’s common use in the restaurant industry.
Political and Cultural Repercussions
The “8647” slogan has gained traction as a symbol of opposition to Trump, appearing on social media platforms like TikTok and in protests. Online marketplace platforms host merchandise featuring “8647,” raising questions about the potential for promoting violence.
While some argue this slogan reflects political dissent, others cite past instances where violent rhetoric aimed at Democratic leaders was not similarly scrutinized.
