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James Comey Defends Deleted '86 47' Post as FBI Leadership Criticizes His Legacy

Former FBI Director James Comey denies violent intent behind controversial social media post, as current FBI leaders pledge transparency on past investigations.

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Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director James Comey testifies before the House Judiciary Committee on the encryption of the iPhone belonging to one of the San Bernardino attackers on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on March 1, 2016. (Photo by Nicholas Kamm / AFP) (Photo by NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP via Getty Images)

Overview

  • James Comey claims ignorance of the violent connotation of '86 47' after posting and deleting a photo of seashells arranged to spell the phrase.
  • FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino have sharply criticized Comey, accusing him of tarnishing the FBI's reputation and leaving a problematic legacy.
  • The U.S. Secret Service has interviewed Comey regarding the post, while DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has labeled it a threat against President Trump.
  • President Trump and his allies assert the post was intentional, with Trump calling it a clear assassination reference, despite Comey's denials.
  • Patel and Bongino have announced plans to release previously withheld Crossfire Hurricane documents within weeks, as part of efforts to rebuild trust in the FBI.