Disgraced former FBI Director James Comey is once again at the center of controversy after posting a cryptic image on Instagram that many interpret as a veiled threat against President Donald Trump. The image, which Comey later deleted, showed seashells arranged to form the number “8647”—a combination critics say carries a chilling message.
In common slang, “86” can mean “eliminate” or “get rid of,” and “47” is widely recognized as a reference to President Trump, who is serving as the 47th President of the United States. The implication was not lost on observers, including prominent conservatives and law enforcement officials.
Comey initially captioned the photo as a “cool shell formation on my beach walk,” but quickly removed the post after backlash erupted online. He later claimed ignorance of the number’s meaning and insisted he opposes violence in any form.
Just James Comey causally calling for my dad to be murdered.
This is who the Dem-Media worships. Demented!!!! pic.twitter.com/4LUK6crHAT
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) May 15, 2025
But Trump allies aren’t buying it.
Donald Trump Jr. was among the first to call out the post, accusing Comey of “playing cute with coded threats.” Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and current FBI Director Kash Patel both confirmed that the Secret Service is actively investigating the matter to determine whether the post constitutes a credible threat.
The fact that a former FBI director—already viewed by many as a partisan operative—would casually post something with potentially violent undertones has reignited anger over Comey’s past role in politically charged investigations. Many conservatives see this as yet another example of the two-tiered system of justice, where left-leaning elites act with impunity while Trump and his allies are relentlessly targeted.
We are aware of the recent social media post by former FBI Director James Comey, directed at President Trump. We are in communication with the Secret Service and Director Curran. Primary jurisdiction is with SS on these matters and we, the FBI, will provide all necessary support.
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) May 15, 2025
Comey has made no further public comments beyond his initial statement, but the damage is already done. What was dismissed by some as an “innocent beach photo” is now the subject of a federal probe and a fresh reminder of how deeply politicized figures within the intelligence and law enforcement community have become.
For Americans concerned about threats against a sitting president, this isn’t a joke—it’s a warning sign. And for those who’ve watched the deep state operate unchecked for years, Comey’s post may have revealed more than he intended.