Mystery of ‘8647’: Ex-FBI Chief Comey’s Cryptic Post Sparks Trump Assassination Controversy
Former FBI Director James Comey is facing intense criticism from U.S. security officials and Trump supporters after sharing a cryptic social media post that many interpreted as a potential threat against President Donald Trump. Comey, fired by Trump during his first term, removed the controversial post following backlash from Republicans and Congress members.
The incident began when Comey shared an Instagram photo showing seashells arranged in the formation of the number “8647,” captioned: “Cool shell formation on my beach walk.” The post quickly attracted attention, leading Trump supporters and various officials to interpret the numerical arrangement as a covert call for violence against the President.
But why did the number ‘8647’ provoke such a reaction? In American slang, “86” typically means to dismiss or remove someone, and “47” is perceived by many to symbolize Trump as the 47th U.S. President. Thus, combining the two numbers, “8647” was interpreted by some as advocating Trump’s violent removal or even assassination.
Facing escalating controversy, Comey, known for his critical stance toward Trump, clarified his intentions and apologized. “I posted earlier a picture of some shells I saw today on a beach walk, which I assumed was a political message,” Comey explained. “I didn’t realize some folks associate those numbers with violence. It never occurred to me, but I oppose violence of any kind, so I took the post down.”
US officials demand investigation, denounce Comey
The post initially gained prominence after Donald Trump Jr. accused Comey of indirectly inciting violence against his father. Senior Trump administration officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, demanded an investigation into the incident.
“Disgraced former FBI Director James Comey just called for the assassination of Trump. DHS and Secret Service are investigating this threat and will respond appropriately,” tweeted Noem.
Taylor Budowich, Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House, condemned the post as evidence of desperation within government circles opposed to Trump’s presidency. “While President Trump is currently on an international trip to the Middle East, the former FBI Director puts out what can clearly be interpreted as ‘a hit’ on the sitting President of the United States a message etched in the sand,” Budowich stated.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting the serious threat posed by such interpretations. “The dangerousness of this cannot be underestimated. We have had two assassination attempts on the President’s life,” Gabbard noted.
This controversy arises just months after President Trump sustained a severe ear injury during an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally in July 2024.