DHS launches investigation after protester in ‘86 47’ shirt calls for Trump’s death

WASHINGTON, DC: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reportedly launched an investigation into a man caught on video calling for the killing of President Donald Trump during an anti-Trump protest. 

The man, described as elderly and seen walking with a stick, was wearing a T-shirt that read “86 47”, a phrase that has gained controversial meaning in political circles.

DHS investigates protester who called for Trump’s death

The incident occurred during a protest earlier this week, where the man was approached by a cameraman who asked him to explain the message on his shirt. In response, the protester declared, “Kill the son of a b****.” When the cameraman sought clarification and asked, “Kill who?” the protester replied, “The 47th president,” directly referencing Trump.

The exchange was recorded and widely circulated online. At one point, the man even provided his name to the cameraman, who warned him about the seriousness of his words. “Glad we got that on camera,” the cameraman said.

“You know that’s illegal, right? You don’t threaten the president. You don’t threaten anybody.”

The video quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparking outrage among Trump supporters and renewed scrutiny of political extremism at anti-Trump demonstrations.

According to Fox News journalist Peter D’Abrosca, the Department of Homeland Security has opened an investigation into the matter.

The meaning behind '86 47' and its controversial history

The phrase “86 47” has circulated for months among both critics and supporters of Trump. In restaurant slang, “86” means to get rid of or remove something, while “47” refers to Donald Trump’s position as the 47th president of the United States. The combination has therefore been interpreted by some as a coded phrase implying hostility toward Trump.

The slogan first drew widespread attention in May when former FBI Director James Comey shared an Instagram photo featuring seashells arranged in the pattern “86 47.” The seemingly cryptic image prompted a wave of speculation and backlash, as many interpreted it as a veiled threat directed at Trump.

Comey was subsequently investigated by the Secret Service, and his movements were reportedly monitored by unmarked cars after the post. Although no charges were filed, the image added fuel to ongoing political tensions and conspiracy theories online.

Following the uproar, Comey deleted the Instagram post and issued a statement explaining that he was unaware of the violent association linked to the phrase.

Renewed scrutiny over violent rhetoric

The DHS investigation into the elderly protester comes amid growing concern over violent rhetoric in American politics. Experts say incidents like this demonstrate how coded language and symbolic numbers can escalate into direct threats against public officials.

The video of the man’s comments has already sparked debate about how law enforcement should respond to politically motivated threats, particularly in the context of highly charged demonstrations.

While officials have not yet released the protester’s identity, the investigation underscores the seriousness with which federal authorities treat any statement perceived as a threat to the president.