CHP Reports Protesters to FBI Over '8647' Sign Near Santa Barbara

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers reported a group of protesters to the FBI after they displayed a sign bearing the numbers '8647' on a Highway 101 overpass near Santa Barbara. The incident has intensified discussions regarding whether the numbers constitute protected free speech or a potential threat against President Donald Trump.

CHP Captain Eric Zivic stated that the agency is obligated to report potential threats against elected officials to the appropriate federal agency. The report to the FBI followed a call from an individual who observed the sign on the Micheltorena Street bridge.

Members of Indivisible Santa Barbara, the group responsible for displaying the sign, claim the incident violated their First Amendment right to free speech. The group cited a June 1, 2026, federal court ruling in Accountability NOW USA v. Griess, where a judge issued a temporary restraining order preventing the National Park Service from taking action against protesters displaying an '8647' flag near the National Mall.

According to Indivisible Santa Barbara, CHP officers instructed the protesters to remove the sign. One officer, identified as Ayala, reportedly told the group, "You can’t wish death upon the president." The protesters were allowed to display other signs, including those reading 'Protect our vote,' but were instructed not to display the '8647' sign.

In a statement, Ian Paige, a committee member of Indivisible Santa Barbara, asserted that the "attempted intimidation" of the group had failed. "We will continue to assert our First Amendment rights of freedom of speech despite threats of FBI reports and local CHP harassment," he said.

The interpretation of "8647" suggests that "86" means to get rid of or remove, while "47" refers to Trump as the 47th president. Federal officials have previously indicated that such phrases can be investigated as potential threats depending on the context.

Earlier this year, a social media post by former FBI Director James Comey featuring the numbers "8647" also drew scrutiny over whether it constituted a threat. However, Indivisible Santa Barbara pointed to public comments from US Attorney General Todd Blanche, who has stated that the phrase is "posted constantly" and its usage alone should not necessarily lead to prosecution.

The group, which has been protesting in the area for over a year, indicated plans to continue using "8647" signs. The California Post reached out to both the CHP and Indivisible Santa Barbara for further comment but did not receive an immediate response.