Former FBI Director James Comey has denied allegations that a photograph he posted to Instagram was a coded call for the assassination of Donald Trump. The image, which displayed seashells arranged to spell out the numbers “8647”, sparked a flurry of accusations from right-wing commentators who linked the number 86 to slang for elimination, and 47 to Trump, the potential 47th president. Comey, who later deleted the post, insisted it was merely a political message that he did not realise could be interpreted as violent.
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Speaking from Abu Dhabi, where he was concluding a Middle East visit, Trump accused Comey of inciting assassination, claiming “even a child knows what that meant.” He suggested the former FBI director should be held accountable and described the post as a clear call for violence. Comey, who was dismissed by Trump in 2017 amid the Russia investigation, responded by reaffirming his opposition to violence and said he removed the post once he understood the potential implications.
The Secret Service confirmed it is investigating the matter, although no formal charges have been announced. FBI Director Kash Patel said his agency would support the inquiry, while Homeland Security Director Kristi Noem and former intelligence official Tulsi Gabbard echoed calls for legal accountability. Gabbard described the post as a “hit” and said the seriousness of such rhetoric should not be underestimated. Comey has not posted any follow-up comments on the matter.
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The controversy unfolds as Comey prepares to release FDR Drive, the latest novel in his crime fiction series. The book features a fictional US attorney tackling a far-right media figure, a plot that may further inflame tensions. This episode adds to ongoing concerns about incendiary political language, particularly as Trump and President Joe Biden continue to exchange charged remarks amid an already polarised climate.
