The U.S. Department of the Interior announced on Thursday that it is investigating a large tracing of the numbers "8647" discovered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. A Reuters photographer positioned atop the Washington Monument observed the apparent marking in the grass near the World War Two Memorial shortly before authorities arrived. The numbers eight, six, and seven were clearly visible, while the four was less defined.
Response and Investigation
U.S. Park Police and members of the National Guard responded to the scene. The Interior Department spokesperson described the incident as "deranged vandalism" and emphasized that any threat against the president is taken seriously. "Our U.S. Park Police will investigate this incident and hold those responsible accountable," the spokesperson stated. Grass samples have been collected for testing, and the cause of the discoloration remains undetermined.
Context of '8647'
The term "8647" has been adopted by opponents of President Donald Trump as a protest symbol. Trump allies and the Department of Justice have suggested it could be interpreted as a call to violence. The number references the slang "86," meaning to expel or get rid of something, combined with Trump as the 47th president.
The incident occurs as the National Mall prepares for events celebrating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Trump has personally overseen refurbishments, including painting the Reflecting Pool near the Lincoln Memorial. A 16-day "Great American State Fair" is scheduled to begin June 25.
Legal and Political Implications
The "8647" symbol is central to a criminal case against former FBI Director James Comey, who was charged with threatening Trump after posting a photo of seashells arranged to form the numbers. Comey removed the post and denied any intent to incite violence, vowing to fight the charges on free speech grounds. A federal judge recently ruled that the National Park Service could not prohibit an anti-Trump protest group from displaying an "8647" flag near the National Mall.
The White House referred questions about the incident to the Interior Department. The investigation is ongoing.
