Former FBI Director James Comey stirred controversy after posting a mysterious photo of seashells arranged in the number “8647” on social media. The post, which Comey later deleted, is now being treated by Trump officials as a potential assassination threat against President Donald Trump.

What is the Meaning Behind ‘8647’?

The numbers “8647” have raised alarm due to the individual significance of “86” and “47” in political slang and symbolism. The number “86” is commonly used to mean “to eject or remove,” while “47” refers to Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States. Together, some officials interpret “8647” as a cryptic call to oust or remove President Trump.

DHS and Secret Service Launch Investigation

In response to the post, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem tweeted, “DHS and Secret Service [are] investigating this threat and will respond appropriately.” Similarly, current FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed coordination with the Secret Service, emphasizing that the primary jurisdiction for such threats lies with the Secret Service, with the FBI providing support.

Comey’s Explanation and Response

James Comey, who served as FBI Director from 2013 until his dismissal by President Trump in 2017, explained that he initially posted the photo after spotting the shells arranged on a beach. He claimed he believed it was a political message but was unaware that the number sequence could be interpreted as violent. He stated, “I oppose violence of any kind so I took the post down.”

Background: Comey vs. Trump

Comey’s tenure as FBI Director was marked by tension with then-President Trump, culminating in Comey’s firing shortly after Trump assumed office. The dismissal followed Comey’s oversight of the FBI’s investigation into possible connections between Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign and Russia. The former FBI director, once a lifelong Republican, distanced himself from the party in 2016 and has since identified as an independent.