LETTER: James Comey a threat?

Bob Valentine Las Vegas August 28, 2026 - 9:00 pm The recent focus on James Comey and a photograph of seashells arranged on a North Carolina shoreline has been dismissed by the writer as baseless. Despite the characterization of the image as a potential threat, the Trump Department of Justice continues to pursue the matter. The claim that the shells were positioned to depict “86 47” and therefore constitute an ominous warning to President Donald Trump is described as laughable. Comey, the former FBI director, shared the picture on social media, stating he had merely walked along the beach, observed the shells, and posted the image. He characterized the formation as a “cool ammunition formation” and denied any involvement in arranging them. Whether Comey personally placed the shells or another individual did so is irrelevant, according to the author, because labeling the display as a danger to the president is absurd. The writer’s understanding is that to “86” someone means to dismiss, refuse service, or remove them from an institution, a concept that carries no inherent threat of violence. Justice Department officials, aware of this interpretation, are seen as clutching at straws and appearing foolish in their pursuit. The recommendation is to abandon the effort altogether.