James Comey’s Instagram Post Sparks Outrage Over Trump Threat

Controversial Instagram Post by Former FBI Director

On May 15, 2025, former FBI Director James Comey posted an image on Instagram that has ignited significant backlash for its perceived threat against President Donald J. Trump. The post, which was later deleted, featured a cryptic message with the numbers '86 47,' interpreted by many as a call for harm against the President. This incident has drawn sharp criticism from Trump supporters and officials alike, raising concerns about the intent behind Comey’s social media activity.

Fox News senior White House correspondent Peter Doocy reported on this issue during a segment on 'The Ingraham Angle,' highlighting the immediate reaction to the post. At around the 2:30 mark of the discussion, Doocy noted that the image and its caption quickly spread across social media platforms, with users and commentators condemning what they saw as a dangerous implication. The swift deletion of the post by Comey did little to quell the outrage, as screenshots and discussions continued to circulate widely.

Official Response and Investigations Underway

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Secret Service have reportedly launched investigations into Comey’s post to determine whether it constitutes a credible threat. This response underscores the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating the matter, especially given Comey’s past role as head of the FBI. While specific details about the investigations remain undisclosed, the involvement of these agencies reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety of the President under the current administration.

Comey has since denied any malicious intent, claiming the post was not meant as a threat. In subsequent media appearances, including an interview on MSNBC, he attempted to clarify his actions, stating he had 'no dark intention' behind the '86 47' reference. However, this explanation has been met with skepticism by many who view the post as irresponsible, particularly coming from someone with Comey’s background in law enforcement.

Public and Political Backlash

The backlash to Comey’s Instagram post has been intense, with numerous posts on social media platforms amplifying the controversy. Many users expressed anger over what they perceived as a direct incitement against President Trump, with some calling for legal consequences. This public sentiment aligns with the administration’s firm stance on protecting national leaders from any form of intimidation or harm, a priority that resonates deeply with those who value law and order.

At approximately the 4:15 point in the Fox News segment, Peter Doocy emphasized how Trump allies have accused Comey of overstepping boundaries with his social media behavior. The White House has also condemned the post, viewing it as an attempt to undermine the President’s safety. This incident adds to the ongoing tension between Comey and the administration, a relationship marked by past conflicts during his tenure as FBI Director.

Comey’s History and Context of the Controversy

James Comey’s history with President Trump has been fraught with contention, dating back to his role in high-profile investigations during Trump’s first term. While this article focuses on the current incident, it is worth noting that Comey’s actions have often been scrutinized by those who support the President’s agenda. The Instagram post is seen by many as a continuation of this adversarial dynamic, further fueling debates about accountability for former officials.

In light of this event, Comey has made additional statements in various media outlets, including a discussion with late-night host Stephen Colbert, where he elaborated on the context of the post. Despite these efforts to mitigate the damage, the narrative of a potential threat persists among critics. The administration remains focused on ensuring that such actions do not go unchecked, prioritizing the security of its leaders.

Broader Implications for Public Discourse

This controversy raises important questions about the role of social media in political discourse, especially when used by individuals with significant public influence. The rapid spread of Comey’s post and the ensuing reaction highlight how digital platforms can amplify messages, for better or worse. For supporters of President Trump, this incident serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance against rhetoric that could be perceived as harmful.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on upholding the safety and dignity of the office of the President. The administration’s response to this matter reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding American leadership from threats, whether explicit or implied. This event, occurring just days ago, continues to dominate discussions, underscoring the importance of responsible communication in today’s polarized environment.