FBI Director Kash Patel has sounded the alarm after a controversial social media post by former FBI Director James Comey allegedly triggered a wave of threats against President Donald Trump. The post in question featured a photo of seashells arranged to read “86 47”—a phrase widely interpreted by critics as a veiled call to “eliminate the 47th president.”
Comey, who posted the image to Instagram, later deleted it amid backlash. He has claimed the photo was misunderstood and denied any violent intent, insisting he opposes political violence and was unaware of the number’s implications. But law enforcement officials aren’t brushing the incident off.
According to Patel, the post has inspired a troubling surge in what he described as “copycat” threats targeting Trump, now serving as the 47th president. The fallout has been so significant that federal agents have been forced to divert resources away from critical investigations—such as those involving child predators and drug trafficking—to address the spike in threat activity.
“The FBI’s primary duty is to keep Americans safe,” said Patel. “When former officials with influence post coded language that extremists interpret as a green light, it’s dangerous. We’ve had to redirect major law enforcement efforts just to keep up.”
The Secret Service has confirmed it is conducting a full investigation into the matter, treating the implications of the message with utmost seriousness. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also condemned the post, calling it “reckless and inflammatory.”
Comey’s history with Trump has been contentious since his firing as FBI director in 2017. Since then, he’s become a frequent critic of the former and current president, though he has largely refrained from direct political threats—until now, some critics say.
The controversy highlights the growing concern over how cryptic social media messages from high-profile figures can quickly escalate into real-world consequences. In an era where political tensions are already sky-high, Patel’s warning underscores how a single post can ignite a national security response.
As investigations continue, the incident is yet another chapter in the deepening divide between Trump and remnants of the intelligence establishment. Whether intentional or not, the message has once again placed Comey in the spotlight—and federal law enforcement on high alert.
? JUST IN: Kash Patel EVISCERATES James Comey — blames him for COPYCAT threats against Trump’s life
Comey should be LOCKED UP for incitement (at a minimum)
KASH: “Do you know how many agents I have had to take off line chasing down child predators, fentanyl traffickers, &… pic.twitter.com/RVDUQTH8w6
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) May 28, 2025