James Comey, the former FBI director, is under investigation for a controversial Instagram post that some believe could be seen as a threat to President Donald Trump. This investigation is being led by the Department of Homeland Security and the Secret Service, as announced by Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security.
The post in question featured an image of seashells arranged to display the numbers “8647.” The number “86” is often used in slang to mean “to get rid of” or “to kill.” After facing backlash, Comey removed the post and stated he didn’t intend it as a threat. He expressed surprise that anyone would connect those numbers with violence.
Despite his comments, the criticism continued. Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, even called for Comey’s imprisonment during a recent appearance on Fox News. Some officials in the Trump administration, including Taylor Budowich, the White House’s deputy chief of staff, linked Comey’s post to Trump’s recent speech in Riyadh, where he criticized nation-building and promoted peace in the Middle East.
Comey has a history of supporting Republican candidates who advocate for interventionist policies. He previously donated to John McCain’s presidential campaign in 2008 and Mitt Romney’s in 2012 before being appointed as FBI director by Barack Obama in 2013. He also served as U.S. attorney in Manhattan and was deputy attorney general under George W. Bush.
As this situation unfolds, it highlights the tense political climate and the scrutiny public figures face over their words and actions.