by Dan Bongino Slams James Comey Over Controversial “86 47” Post: “He’s Shamed the FBI Again”
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino has publicly criticized former FBI Director James Comey, accusing him of once again tarnishing the agency’s reputation. The backlash comes as authorities investigate a now-deleted Instagram post from Comey that stirred serious controversy.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Bongino didn’t hold back:
“Former FBI Director James Comey brought shame to the FBI badge, yet again, this past week,” he wrote. “The Director and I spend an inordinate amount of time cleaning up messes left behind by former Director Comey. And his latest actions are no exception.”
What Did Comey Post?
Comey, who was fired by former President Donald Trump in 2017, sparked outrage Thursday when he posted a photo of seashells arranged to spell out “86 47.”
The phrase is widely interpreted as slang for “get rid of” the 47th president—who many believe to be Trump if he wins re-election.
Although Comey quickly deleted the post and claimed he didn’t realize the numbers had violent connotations, critics weren’t buying it—including Trump himself.
“He knew exactly what that meant. A child knows what that meant,” Trump told Fox News. “That meant ‘assassination.’”
Comey later explained online that it “never occurred to me” the numbers could be seen as violent, and said he “didn’t realize some folks associate those numbers with violence.”
Bongino: “This Is a Pattern of Behavior”
Bongino dismissed Comey’s explanation, calling it part of a long-running pattern of poor leadership.
In his statement, Bongino said he and current FBI Director Kash Patel are focused on fixing what they view as systemic problems left behind by Comey’s tenure.
“As Deputy Director of the FBI, alongside Director Patel, it’s our job to ensure past mistakes like these never happen again,” Bongino said.
He emphasized that while the FBI doesn’t lead investigations into threats against presidents, it actively supports federal partners and takes seriously any allegations involving former FBI officials.
Investigation and Internal Response
The U.S. Secret Service has already spoken with Comey about the incident. Director Patel confirmed the FBI is in touch with the Secret Service and Director Kimberly Cheatle.
Bongino added that the Comey situation highlights deeper issues he and Patel are working to correct behind the scenes.
“Sadly, many of the reform items we’re tackling today stem from Comey’s poor decision-making and awful leadership,” Bongino said.
“And to anyone who doubts that, I promise—if you saw what we see on the inside, you’d understand it’s even worse than you think.”
Why Bongino Spoke Out Now
Bongino explained he decided to release the statement now because his upcoming interview on Fox Business’ “Sunday Morning Futures” with Maria Bartiromo was recorded before the Comey post surfaced.
“That’s why I’m addressing this now—so the public hears directly from me,” he said.
Closing Message
He ended his statement with a patriotic note and a reaffirmation of his commitment to law enforcement reform.
“God bless America, and all those who defend Her,” Bongino wrote.
Dan Bongino, a former NYPD officer and longtime Secret Service agent, was appointed Deputy Director of the FBI earlier this year. He now serves alongside Director Kash Patel as part of a broader push by the Trump administration to restore credibility and accountability to the bureau.
