dailyloe.com – Former FBI Director James Comey faces charges related to his Instagram post featuring the term “86.” Prosecutors allege that the term was a threat to President Donald Trump.
On April 29, 2026, federal prosecutors stated that Comey’s post, which showed seashells arranged to read “86 47,” was interpreted as a serious intent to harm the president.
Mike Reyes, a hospitality consultant, noted that “86” is commonly used in the restaurant industry to indicate an item is out of stock. He remarked, “It’s probably the most overused word in hospitality.”
Reyes first encountered the term at age 14 when he began working in restaurants. He expressed surprise at the indictment, calling the term a frequent and non-malicious part of industry jargon.
David Brungoli, owner of Pavin 86 in New York City, criticized the indictment’s interpretation of the term. He explained that the number in his restaurant’s name relates to its location on East 86th Street.
Brungoli emphasized that “86” is used solely when items run out, stating, “If it’s 86, the next day we order more.” He has never associated the term with violence.
Reyes acknowledged that while the term has been used in jokes about people, it is generally lighthearted. He recalled instances of jokingly saying someone got “86ed” when they were fired.
John Coppola, a chef in Brooklyn, explained that “86” means to remove something, whether it’s a dish or an ingredient. He stated that the term can function as a noun or verb.
The indictment against Comey has raised questions about the interpretation of language within specific contexts, particularly in the restaurant industry.
As the case progresses, the implications of this common term and its perceived meanings will continue to be scrutinized in both legal and culinary circles.
