Ex-FBI chief investigated by Secret

Former FBI Director James Comey is under investigation by the US Secret Service after sharing a controversial Instagram post, which he later deleted. The post featured a photo of seashells arranged to spell “8647.” Some interpreted this as a coded threat against Donald Trump, as “86” can mean to eliminate or get rid of something, and “47” could reference Trump being the 47th US president. Comey, who served as FBI chief from 2013 until his dismissal in 2017, clarified that he did not intend any violent message, stating that he did not realize the numbers could be seen that way.

The Secret Service confirmed they are taking the matter seriously and are investigating. Some Republicans accused Comey of inciting violence, with Donald Trump Jr. alleging that the former FBI director was calling for Trump’s murder. Current FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the bureau is cooperating with the Secret Service. Comey expressed regret for the misunderstanding, emphasizing his opposition to violence. The controversy follows a period of political tension, with Trump previously surviving two assassination attempts in 2024.