A federal judge has ruled that an anti-Trump group, Accountability Now USA, can continue flying a flag near the National Mall that reads “86-47.” This decision comes as a significant victory for free speech advocates and a setback for the government’s attempt to restrict the display. The judge granted a restraining order, preventing the National Park Service from interfering with the group’s demonstration and their prominent display of the flag.
The judge’s reasoning centers on the interpretation of “86-47.” It was determined that this numerical code is intended to advocate for President Trump’s removal from office, specifically through impeachment. Crucially, the court found that “86” is not an unambiguous call for political violence, nor is it an incitement to “imminent” violence.… Continue reading
Federal prosecutors contend that James Comey’s use of “86” on Instagram constituted a threat, interpreting it as an intent “to do harm” to President Trump. However, individuals within the food service industry widely regard “86” as common slang meaning an item is out of stock or unavailable. This term has a long history in hospitality, with various theories on its origin, but its everyday use primarily signifies depletion rather than malice. Despite the legal interpretation, those familiar with the term in restaurant and bar settings find the accusation of a death threat “ridiculous,” emphasizing its common, non-violent application.
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This article excerpt highlights Donald Trump’s assertion that the term “86” is a mob slang for “kill him.” According to Trump, the mafia uses this phrase specifically when intending to eliminate someone. He further elaborated that “86 the son of a gun” is the colloquial expression employed by mobsters to convey such a lethal intent.
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Former FBI Director James Comey’s Instagram post featuring “86 47” sparked accusations of inciting violence against President Trump, despite Comey’s apology citing unawareness of the number’s violent connotations. Simultaneously, critics highlighted the hypocrisy of conservatives who previously used “86 46” to advocate for President Biden’s impeachment. This apparent double standard fueled widespread outrage on social media, with users pointing out the disparate interpretations of the numerical slogans. The Secret Service confirmed their investigation into the matter, emphasizing their commitment to protecting high-profile individuals from credible threats. The incident underscored the highly charged political climate and the potential for misinterpretations in online communication.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker