How President Biden came to the decision to pardon his son Hunter

 

President Joe Biden and his family discussed whether to pardon Hunter Biden during their time together in Nantucket for Thanksgiving, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to ABC News Monday.

Senior White House staff learned of the possibility of a pardon on Saturday evening. President Biden made his final decision on Sunday, the source said.

Biden did not answer questions on the issue as he left late Sunday for a three-day trip to Africa.

Hunter Biden, the president's only surviving son, was convicted on federal gun-related charges in June and pleaded guilty to nine tax-related charges in September. Both cases carried the possibility of significant prison time and he was set to be sentenced in both later this month.

President Biden had long said he would not pardon his son, including in an interview with ABC's David Muir as Hunter Biden's gun trial was underway this past summer.

In his statement on Sunday evening, Biden contended his son was "unfairly" prosecuted after pressure from his political opponents.

"For my entire career I have followed a simple principle: just tell the American people the truth. They’ll be fair-minded. Here’s the truth: I believe in the justice system, but as I have wrestled with this, I also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice -- and once I made this decision this weekend, there was no sense in delaying it further," President Biden said.

Hunter Biden, his wife Melissa Cohen Biden and their son Beau, as well as Ashley Biden, spent Thanksgiving in Nantucket with President Biden and first lady Jill Biden.

"I hope Americans will understand why a father and a President would come to this decision," the president added.

Republicans, including President-elect Donald Trump, pounced on the reversal.

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Donald Trump says BRICS countries will face 100% tariffs if they create a new currency to replace the U.S. dollar.

 

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Armor: Mihok on 'Sleepers' Reunion with Jason Patric, Film & More

 

What intrigued me about 'Armor' was it wasn't your average heist movie. Obviously, Sly and Jason intrigued me, as did Josh, the rest of the cast, and the element of it all. What most intrigued me was playing opposite Sly, a character with a history with an old friend, and something has gone awry. They have a rift now and how to tell that story underneath amid a shoot 'em up popcorn movie as well and have the other side to the family story, which is Jason and Josh's story. There's some family of thieves where things aren't going right now and trying to pepper it with things that make people want to know more.

We shot this movie quickly, so it was fast and furious. We were all working together as part of a huge collaboration. Cale [Finot], the DP, our stunt guys, and the stunt coordinator, everybody was clean and focused. We had to reset and keep that in line when it wasn't. We didn't have much time to do this, so the set had to be shipshape, and I feel like I did my duty in helping it run smoothly.

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Josh Allen makes NFL history as Bills clinch AFC East with win over 49ers in driving snow.

 Josh Allen makes NFL history as Bills clinch AFC East with win over 49ers in driving snow.

Josh Allen's standout performance against the San Francisco 49ers in a snow-laden showdown not only secured a vital win but also earned him a unique place in NFL history. The Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC East division title with the victory, demonstrating their dominance and resilience in harsh weather conditions. Allen’s performance was extraordinary, as he became the first quarterback in NFL history to record a passing touchdown, a rushing touchdown, and a receiving touchdown in a single game. This feat underlined his versatility and ability to rise to the occasion. 

The game showcased Allen’s adaptability in adverse conditions. Despite the challenges posed by heavy snowfall, Allen led the Bills’ offense with precision and creativity. His passing touchdown reflected his strong arm and accuracy, while his rushing touchdown highlighted his athleticism and physicality. The receiving touchdown added a surprising twist, displaying his readiness to embrace unconventional plays and collaborate with teammates in dynamic ways.

The victory was significant not just for Allen’s personal records but for the Bills as a team. Clinching the AFC East title cemented their place in the playoffs and underscored their standing as a formidable force in the league. The Bills’ ability to execute in extreme conditions reinforced their reputation as a team built to handle diverse challenges. The game also demonstrated the trust and synergy between Allen and his teammates, particularly on the trick play that led to his receiving touchdown.

This performance further solidifies Allen's MVP-caliber season. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Allen has consistently delivered in critical moments, combining his rushing prowess with his ability to read defenses and make key throws. His leadership on and off the field has been instrumental in Buffalo's success, earning him respect from teammates, fans, and opponents alike.

In addition to the historical achievement, the game was a morale booster for the Bills as they head into the playoffs. Overcoming a tough opponent like the 49ers in challenging conditions speaks volumes about the team’s preparation and resilience. Allen’s ability to inspire confidence and deliver results in such scenarios bodes well for Buffalo’s postseason aspirations. 

The game will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the 2024 NFL season, not only for the snow-covered theatrics but also for Allen’s historic and electrifying performance. It reaffirmed his status as one of the most exciting and complete quarterbacks in the league and underscored the Buffalo Bills’ determination to compete at the highest level. With momentum on their side, the Bills look poised for a deep playoff run, led by a quarterback who continues to redefine what’s possible on the football field.

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Bangladesh shaking in fear of India? But why, what did Bangladesh do?

 Bangladesh shaking in fear of India? But why, what did Bangladesh do?

It’s unlikely that Bangladesh as a nation is "shaking in fear" of India. The two countries share a complex yet cooperative relationship, marked by historical ties, trade partnerships, and border dynamics. If there's a recent issue creating tension, it could stem from one of the following:

1. Border Disputes or Security Concerns: 

• Bangladesh and India share a 4,096 km border, the fifth-longest in the world. Border incidents, smuggling, or concerns over illegal migration often cause friction.
• Security policies or military actions in border areas sometimes raise anxieties.

2. River Water Sharing Conflicts:

• River disputes, particularly over the Teesta River, have long been contentious. India has faced criticism for delaying a water-sharing agreement, and such issues could stoke political and social concerns in Bangladesh.

3. Trade and Economic Dependencies:

• Bangladesh relies heavily on India for certain imports. Any disruptions or economic policies perceived as unfavorable could create unease.
• Protectionist policies or infrastructure projects in India affecting Bangladeshi interests might lead to tension.

4. Refugee and Rohingya Issues: 

• Bangladesh is hosting over a million Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, and there have been calls for more regional support, including from India. Disagreements on how to handle the crisis could contribute to unease.

5. Political Statements or Media Sensationalism:

• Often, political or media narratives exaggerate tensions to serve domestic agendas. Comments from politicians or speculation about security or sovereignty might be overblown.

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New Video Shows Clear Instigator in College Football Brawl With Michigan-Ohio State

New Video Shows Clear Instigator in College Football Brawl With Michigan-Ohio State.

 

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Trump threat of 100% tariffs against Brics nations raises trade war fears.

 

Fears of a global trade war have risen after Donald Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on countries in the Brics group if they create a new currency to rival the US dollar.

Writing on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Saturday, Trump declared that he would also act if they supported another currency to replace the dollar.

“We require a commitment from these countries that they will neither create a new Brics currency nor back any other currency to replace the mighty US dollar or they will face 100% tariffs and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US economy,” Trump said.

“They can go find another sucker. There is no chance that the Brics will replace the US dollar in international trade, and any country that tries should wave goodbye to America,” he added.

The warning came less than a week after Trump declared he would impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China once he was inaugurated as president.

Trump’s talk of tariffs raises fears of hit to economies worldwide

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The Brics group was originally made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and has been joined by Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia and Iran.

Some Brics members have shown interest in de-dollarising the world economy. In October, Vladimir Putin called for an alternative international payments system that could prevent the US from using the dollar as a political weapon. Others, though, fear the consequences of severing relations with the US and other western countries by breaking away from the dollar, which underpins world finance.

A 100% tariff at the US border, if implemented, would drive up sharply the cost of goods from Brics members, fuelling US inflation and destabilising global trade flows.

Stephen Innes, a managing partner at SPI Asset Management, said Trump had laid down the gauntlet with a “blistering proposal” of a 100% tariff.

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Trump picks Patel to lead FBI

 

President Donald Trump announced Saturday night that he has picked staunch Trump loyalist Kash Patel as the next director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Patel, a Trump transition insider, has been one of Trump’s most visible and vocal allies, showing up at his criminal trial in Manhattan, perpetuating conspiracy theories about the 2020 election. He worked as chief of staff to the secretary of Defense during the first Trump administration, and has been outspoken about calling for a purge of Trump’s enemies from the Justice Department, FBI and other intelligence agencies.

Trump, in a post to Truth Social, called Patel a “brilliant lawyer, investigator, and ‘America First’ fighter who has spent his career exposing corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People.”

“He played a pivotal role in uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, standing as an advocate for truth, accountability, and the Constitution,” the president-elect added, referring to the role Patel played as a staffer in crafting House Republican responses to the investigation into Trump and Russian interference in the 2016 election. 

At the time, Patel was an aide to Republican Rep. Devin Nunes (Calif.), then the top Republican on the House Intelligence Committee, a position that helped raise his profile in Trump’s inner circle.

If confirmed, Patel will replace current FBI Director Chris Wray, whom Trump nominated in 2017 after firing James Comey, cutting his 10-year term short. Wray’s term is not set to expire until 2027, so Trump will have to fire Wray to install Patel, if Wray doesn’t resign first.

The FBI released a statement in response to the announcement, saying, “Every day, the men and women of the FBI continue to work to protect Americans from a growing array of threats. Director Wray’s focus remains on the men and women of the FBI, the people we do the work with, and the people we do the work for.

Patel was angling to be deputy director of the CIA, a position that would not have required Senate confirmation, unlike the FBI director post, which does. It’s unclear whether Patel, who is a divisive figure even among Trump loyalists, will have the votes needed in the Senate to be confirmed.

When Trump floated naming Patel deputy director of the FBI during his first administration, then-Attorney General Bill Barr responded “over my dead body,” according to reporting at the time. CIA Director Gina Haspel also threatened to quit over the move.  

Patel played roles in both sequences of events that led to special counsel Jack Smith’s criminal charges against Trump.

The Justice Department granted him limited immunity to testify in the case involving Trump’s decision to amass classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate after leaving office.

And he testified to both the Jan. 6 committee and federal prosecutors about Trump’s discussions about deploying the National Guard in advance of the violence on Jan. 6, 2021.

And Patel was a witness in Trump’s defense at a Colorado trial over that determined Trump helped spark an insurrection on Jan. 6. Though the trial was an effort by some Trump adversaries to remove Trump from the ballot under the Constitution’s Insurrection Clause, the Supreme Court ultimately reversed the decision.

Patel is a former federal public defender and former federal prosecutor in the Justice Department’s national security division. A staunch Trump defender, Patel has been assisting the president-elect in compiling a list of candidates to join the Justice Department.

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Lokomotiv (Plovdiv) - Botev (Plovdiv) 0:1 in an efbet League match.

 

Botev is the new master of Plovdiv. This is the conclusion after the midday edition of the city derby of the 17th round of the efbet League. Dusan Kerkes' team took their tough visit to "Lauta" with their favorite result 1:0, and Ehije Ukaki played the role of hero, signing 11 minutes before the final whistle.

The emblematic match for native football did not offer many interesting moments, and if it wasn't for the momentary "outburst" of the guests, the derby would have been calmly on its way to a fifth draw in a row.

The three points left Botev in second place in the provisional standings, now just four behind leaders Ludogorets, who are yet to play Slavia. The crisis in Loko (SW) is total and the team has slipped to only 13th position.

Botev had a slight initiative after Radoslav Gidzenov's first whistle. In the 180th second, Ivelin Popov turned the ball well from a foul, but Antoine Conte, who came on from deep, was unable to make a header.

The hosts had serious claims to the head referee Radoslav Gidjenov, after Antoine Conte stepped firmly into Oliver Camdem's feet in the penalty area in the eighth minute. Although after a discussion with VAR, the referee remained firm in his decision and did not point to the penalty spot. And the "smurfs" didn't like that at all.

Botev hinted that he was watching every inaccuracy of the opponent, as in the 12th minute only the adjudged ambush saved Loko from conceding a goal. Ehije Ukaki burst down the right flank, then very measuredly found Alen Koroshets. The Slovenian scored with just one touch of the ball, but he had no time to rejoice as he quickly saw the flag raised.

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Felipe Drugovich to participate in Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Free Practice One and end-of-season test.

 

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team Test and Reserve Driver Felipe Drugovich will take part in Free Practice One at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix before driving for the team during the end-of-season test, joining Jak Crawford for the final day of running at Yas Marina Circuit.

Felipe will take the place of Lance Stroll for the hour-long session at Yas Marina Circuit before Lance returns to the AMR24 for FP2. The session marks Felipe's second FP1 outing of the 2024 season, following his successful run at the Mexico City Grand Prix. His participation aligns with the team's commitment to fulfilling the FIA's rookie driver requirements and furthering Felipe's development within the Aston Martin Aramco team.

Aston Martin Aramco can also confirm that Felipe will drive during the end-of-season test held at Yas Marina Circuit. The announcement finalises the team's testing line-up, with Felipe and Jak Crawford each behind the wheel of an AMR24 for the season's final day of running. 

Felipe Drugovich, Test and Reserve Driver, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, said:

"I'm really excited to drive the AMR24 again, and this time at Yas Marina – a circuit that I know well from completing many testing laps there. It will be great to see how the car feels in a completely different environment compared to Mexico, and I'm looking forward to building on what I learned during my first FP1 session earlier this year. It will be great to get a feel for the 2025 Pirelli tyres that the Formula One cars will be running next year, too.

"Driving the AMR24 is always a fantastic opportunity, and I'm grateful to Aston Martin Aramco for trusting me with this second session as well as the end-of-season test. Also, a big thank you to Banco Master for their ongoing support."

Mike Krack, Team Principal, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, said:

"We are delighted to offer Felipe further opportunities to drive the AMR24 during Free Practice One and the end-of-season test at Yas Marina. Felipe demonstrated his capabilities and provided valuable feedback during his outing in Mexico, and these sessions will give him a chance to continue building on the 8,200km of experience he already has behind the wheel of a Formula One car. Felipe's work during FP1 will contribute directly to our data gathering and decision-making for the rest of the weekend, and we know he will provide insightful and valuable feedback.

"It's great to have two young drivers behind the wheel of our cars for the end-of-season test, further demonstrating our commitment to their experience and development. Both Felipe and Jak spend significant time in our simulator at the AMR Technology Campus, and time on track is invaluable for correlation, ultimately enhancing their feedback."

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