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FBI Director Comey Indicted Over Instagram “86 47” Caption

8/20/2026

44 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

FBI Director James Comey was indicted on two felonies for threatening President Donald Trump with an Instagram post.
Prosecutors say the “86 47” caption means “Kill President Trump,” because “86” can mean “to get rid of.”
Comey posted the photo on May 15, 2025 and deleted it after saying he did not realize it could appear violent.
Comey has pleaded not guilty, arguing the indictment retaliates for his 2017 testimony against Trump.

History

Historical Context

The Watergate break-in on June 17 1972 and the subsequent cover-up led to 69 indictments, the Supreme Court’s July 24 1974 ruling forcing President Nixon to release Oval Office tapes, and his resignation on August 9 1974. That loss of presidential immunity established a precedent cited in later disputes over executive authority, such as investigations of FBI Director James Comey.

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Story summary

FBI Director James Comey was indicted on two felonies for threatening President Donald Trump with an Instagram post.
Prosecutors say the “86 47” caption means “Kill President Trump,” because “86” can mean “to get rid of.”
Comey posted the photo on May 15, 2025 and deleted it after saying he did not realize it could appear violent.
Comey has pleaded not guilty, arguing the indictment retaliates for his 2017 testimony against Trump.

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