Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated on Sunday that the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey was not solely based on his controversial Instagram post featuring seashells arranged to read '86 47.' Blanche emphasized that the investigation involved multiple agencies and considered a broader body of evidence.
Core Facts
Blanche appeared on NBC’s 'Meet the Press' to discuss the indictment, which stems from a post Comey made in May 2025. The post, since deleted, showed a seashell arrangement with the numbers '86 47' and the caption 'Cool shell formation on my beach walk.' Critics interpreted the numbers as a coded threat against President Donald Trump, the 47th president, with '86' being slang for termination.
Investigation Details
Blanche clarified that the indictment was the result of an 11-month investigation by career prosecutors, FBI agents, and Secret Service personnel. He noted that the grand jury considered more than just the Instagram post, though he could not disclose specifics due to legal constraints. 'This is not just about a single Instagram post,' Blanche said. 'It’s about a body of evidence.'
Context and Reactions
The term '86 47' has been used widely online, including on merchandise sold by retailers like Amazon. Blanche distinguished between the post and other similar expressions, stating that not all threatening statements against Trump result in indictments. 'There are facts, there are circumstances, there are investigations that have to take place,' he said.
Legal and Political Implications
The indictment has sparked debate over free speech and the interpretation of intent in online communications. Some observers question whether the post was intended as a threat, while others argue that the broader investigation justifies the charges. The case is expected to draw further scrutiny as it progresses through the legal system.