From Soda Jerk Slang to Political Misstep: How ’86 47′ Backfires on Protesters

The term “86” originated in the 1930s at soda fountains, where it meant “out of stock,” as noted in Walter Winchell’s 1933 column (Havana Evening Telegram).

It evolved in restaurants and hospitality to signify ejecting patrons or removing items, a usage documented by Merriam-Webster.

By 2025, “86 47” emerged in politics at anti-Trump rallies, like the April 20, 2025, Everett protest (The Seattle Times), ostensibly to “remove” Donald Trump, the 47th President.

However, its slang meaning—”to get rid of”—raises valid concerns, especially after two assassination attempts on Trump in 2024; July 13 in Pennsylvania and September 15 in Florida. Critics, including users on X warn this ambiguous rhetoric could fuel further violence against U.S. presidents.

Yet, there’s a clever twist for true American patriots: “86” aligns with police code 10-86, meaning “Officer on-duty.”

In this light, protesters chanting “86 47” have inadvertently been acknowledging Trump as “President on-duty,” not calling for impeachment or worse.

This reframing turns the phrase into an unintended salute to President Trump’s leadership, especially amid heightened tensions marked by gunfire near Whidbey Island during the Everett rally.

Rather than inciting division, “86 47” can be seen as a patriotic nod to President Trump’s active role, flipping the narrative on its head.

As protests continue, this interpretation could shift the discourse, encouraging unity over conflict and highlighting the irony of the protesters’ message.

For those who value clarity, using “impeach” would have avoided this mix-up—but instead, they’ve accidentally affirmed Trump’s presidency.