WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden faces a stark choice as he contemplates broad preemptive pardons to protect aides and allies from potential retribution by Donald Trump: Does he hew to the institutional norms he’s spent decades defending or flex the powers of the presidency in untested ways? The deliberations so far are largely at the level of White House lawyers. But the president has discussed the topic with senior aides, according to two people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive subject. No decisions have been made, the people said, and it is possible Biden opts to do nothing at all. Biden is taking the idea seriously and has been thinking about it for as much as six months — before the presidential election — but has been concerned about the precedent it would set, according to another person familiar with the president’s discussions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Pardons are historically afforded to those accused of specific crimes –- and usually to those who have already been convicted of an offense — but Biden’s team is considering issuing them for some who have not even been investigated, let alone charged. RELATED COVERAGE NYC’s mayor warms to Trump and doesn’t rule out becoming a Republican Ex-police officer denies leaking confidential information to Proud Boys leader Mother of Austin Tice, journalist missing in Syria, says new information proves her son is alive The president could, if he chooses, issue blanket pardons to specific people whom Trump and his allies have threatened to punish. Or he could pardon a broad class of people — not unlike pardons issued to those convicted of federal marijuana offenses or those ensnared in the “don’t ask, don’t tell” military policies. Either way, he’d be using the powers of the presidency in a new way. Some worry that Trump and his allies, who have talked of enemies lists and exacting “retribution,” could launch investigations that would be reputationally and financially costly for targeted people even if they don’t result in prosecutions. The door has already been opened, given that Biden has extended a broad pardon to his son, Hunter , who was convicted and pleaded guilty in tax and gun cases. Biden explained that decision by saying he believed the prosecution of his son had been poisoned by politics. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Friday that Biden plans additional pardons before leaving office though she would not elaborate on the process. She repeatedly referenced “changing factors” that motivated the president to pardon his son despite promising he wouldn’t. She said Republicans have continued to try to see Hunter Biden investigated for an array of alleged offenses, a rationale that could support additional pardons for Biden aides and allies. It was two weeks ago that one of the president’s closest allies in Congress, Rep, Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, encouraged Biden to pardon his son Hunter. The morning after that conversation, Clyburn told Biden’s staff that he believed the president should also pardon those being targeted by Trump. “I was very forceful in my discussions with him about what I thought he ought to do regarding his son,” Clyburn said Friday. “But I also told them that I thought he ought to go even further, because all the noise about Jack Smith and Liz Cheney and Doctor Fauci and all of that.” Special Counsel Jack Smith has been investigating Trump for his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and for accusations he hoarded classified documents at his home. Liz Cheney, a conservative Republican , was the vice chairwoman of the congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection and campaigned for Vice President Kamala Harris. Fauci, an infectious disease expert, was instrumental in the government’s response to the coronavirus. All have raised the ire of Trump. Clyburn said he told Biden’s team, only half jokingly, that because the Supreme Court has already said that the president has certain immunities, “let’s give that same immunity to Jack Smith for carrying out his duties and to, Doctor Fauci, Liz Cheney, they were carrying out their duties.” Among those mentioned publicly for possible presidential pardons, there are different sentiments on whether pardons would even be wanted. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi supported the president’s move to pardon his son, but has been silent on the speculation that Biden is considering additional pardons for her or others. A top Pelosi ally, Rep. Adam Schiff, the Democratic congressman who led Trump’s first impeachment, has panned the idea of pardoning Biden’s allies. He says “the courts are strong enough to withstand” the worst of Trump’s threats. “I don’t think a preemptive pardon makes sense,” the incoming senator told NPR recently. “I would urge the president not to do that. I think it would seem defensive and unnecessary,” Schiff said. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin, who was the lead manager on Trump’s second impeachment, on the charge of inciting the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol, said members of Congress already are protected by the speech and debate clause in the Constitution, which protects them prosecution for participating in their legislative duties. Raskin said figures like Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and John Kelly , Trump’s former White House chief of staff, would similarly be protected by the First Amendment. But Raskin said the question is, “Should they go through the criminal investigation and prosecution for not doing anything wrong? I think that’s why this whole issue has erupted.” Raksin added that with Trump promising to pardon hundreds of people who assaulted police officers on Jan. 6th, “I can hardly fault President Biden for exploring the use of the pardon to protect people from a fraudulent and unjust prosecution.” House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said he’s had no conversations with the White House regarding any preemptive pardons for current or former members of Congress. ___ Associated Press Writers Kevin Freking and Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.Rivian ranked last for reliability in Consumer Reports survey, while EVs improve overallThe Premier League will undoubtedly bounce back from this scandal, but the scars left behind will serve as a constant reminder of the importance of upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethics. As we reflect on this sobering chapter in football history, let us recommit ourselves to the values that make the beautiful game truly beautiful: fairness, honesty, and a level playing field for all.
Invest UP seeks ties with academia
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Mbappé scores as Madrid moves closer to Barcelona in Spanish league ahead of tough test at LiverpoolIn reality, zoos are highly regulated institutions that prioritize the well-being and conservation of animals, with trained professionals caring for and studying the diverse species housed within their facilities. The idea of hiring individuals to imitate wild animals for entertainment purposes contradicts the ethical standards and conservation goals of reputable zoological institutions.While the incident has certainly sparked controversy and debate, it has also highlighted the power of accountability and the potential for positive change. Zhang's willingness to admit his mistake and work towards making amends serves as a valuable lesson for us all in the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and striving to do better.
Despite its solid gameplay and engaging story, Marvel's Avengers is not without its flaws. Some players have criticized the game for its repetitive mission structure and occasional technical issues, such as bugs and glitches. However, the developers have been quick to address these issues with regular updates and patches, ensuring that the game continues to improve and evolve over time.OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Fresh off one of its best showings of the season, the Baltimore defense now has another problem to worry about. Roquan Smith missed practice again Friday because of a hamstring injury. Although the Ravens didn't officially rule him or anyone else out — they don't play until Monday night — the All-Pro linebacker's status seems dicey. “Definitely it will be a challenge if Roquan can’t go,” defensive coordinator Zach Orr said. “We’re holding out hope and everything like that. I think it’ll just be by committee. Not one person is going to replace Roquan. Roquan’s an every-down linebacker.” Although the Ravens lost 18-16 last weekend, Baltimore didn't allow a touchdown. That was an encouraging sign for a team that ranks 26th in the league in total defense. Baltimore is on the road Monday against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Ravens appear to have dodged one potential nightmare. Star safety Kyle Hamilton injured an ankle against Cincinnati on Nov. 7, but he was able to play almost every defensive snap the following week against Pittsburgh. But Smith was injured in that game and didn't practice Thursday or Friday. Linebacker Malik Harrison had a season high in tackles last weekend and figures to have a significant role if Smith can't go. “We tell these guys, ‘You’re one play away to going in there — you never know, so you got to stay ready.’ Malik — he was ready,” Orr said. “I thought he went in there and did a good job, especially after the first series, he settled down. That’s what we expect from him.” It's hard to tell whether last week can be a significant turning point for Baltimore's defense. The Ravens allowed only 10 points in a dominant win over Buffalo in Week 4, then yielded 38 against Cincinnati the following game. After allowing 10 against Denver, the Ravens were picked apart by the Bengals again a few days later. So they still haven't shown they can play a good game defensively and then build on it. “I think it’s easier said than done. It’s something that we kind of got caught up saying against Buffalo and then coming up the next week and not doing," Hamilton said. "We’re aware of it now and know that we played a good game, but I think we can get a lot better, and I think that’s kind of the mindset everybody on defense has right now.” Hamilton's ability to make a difference all over the field is part of what makes him valuable, but positioning him deep is one way the Ravens can try to guard against big passing plays. Pittsburgh's Russell Wilson threw for only 205 yards against Baltimore. That's after Joe Burrow passed for 428 and four touchdowns in the Ravens' previous game. “I’ve always seen myself as a safety. A versatile one, but at the end of the day, I think I play safety,” Hamilton said. “If I’m asked to go play safety, I feel like that’s not an issue for me to play safety if I’m a safety.” NOTES: In addition to Smith, WR Rashod Bateman (knee), DT Travis Jones (ankle), S Sanoussi Kane (ankle) C Tyler Linderbaum (back) and CB Arthur Maulet (calf) missed practice Friday. WR Nelson Agholor (illness) returned to full participation after missing Thursday's practice. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
Exelixis stock hits 52-week high at $36.6 amid robust growthNone
The performance of private equity funds with assets exceeding one hundred billion RMB in China have been released for the first 11 months of the year, revealing that over 90% of the products have achieved profits. This remarkable success comes amid a challenging financial environment and highlights the resilience and expertise of the fund managers.
In the realm of European football, there exists a team that is truly a force to be reckoned with. With a storied history, a legacy of success, and a current form that is nothing short of dominant, this team has once again shown why they are considered one of the giants of the sport. I am, of course, talking about the reigning Champions League 6-time winners, who have recently secured an impressive 5 consecutive victories in the competition, steamrolling past both Real Madrid and AC Milan to effortlessly book their spot in the next round.
FRISCO, Texas (AP) — A rare win as a double-digit underdog came just in time to let the Dallas Cowboys believe their playoff hopes aren't completely gone in 2024. Cooper Rush probably will need three more victories in a row filling in for the injured Dak Prescott for any postseason talk to be realistic. The thing is, the Cowboys (4-7) could be favored in two of those games, and already are by four points as an annual Thanksgiving Day host against the New York Giants (2-9) on Thursday, according to BetMGM. Not to mention the losing record at the moment for each of the next four opponents for the defending NFC East champions, playoff qualifiers each of the past three seasons. The Cowboys have a chance to make something of the improbable and chaotic 34-26 win at Washington that ended a five-game losing streak. “Behind the eight ball,” Micah Parsons said, the star pass rusher acknowledging the reality that Dallas hadn't done much yet. “Let’s see how we can handle adversity and see if we can make a playoff run. But we got a long way to go.” It was a start, though, powered in part by the best 55 minutes from the Dallas defense since the opener, when the Cowboys dismantled Cleveland and looked the part of a Super Bowl contender. The last five minutes for the Dallas defense against the Commanders looked a lot like most of the nine games after that 33-17 victory over the Browns. Which is to say not very good. Jayden Daniels easily drove Washington 69 yards to a touchdown before throwing an 86-yard scoring pass in the final seconds to Terry McLaurin, who weaved through five defenders when a tackle might have ended the game. The Cowboys kept a 27-26 lead thanks to Austin Seibert's second missed extra point, and withstood another blunder when Juanyeh Thomas returned an onside kick recovery for a TD rather than slide and leave one kneel-down from Rush to end the game. Dallas will have to remember it did hold a dynamic rookie quarterback's offense to 251 yards before the madness of the ending in the Cowboys' biggest upset victory since 2010 at the New York Giants. That one was too late to save the season. This one might not be. “We needed it,” embattled coach Mike McCarthy said. “It’s been frustrating, no doubt. We’ve acknowledged that. We’ve got another one right around the corner here, so we have to get some wins and get some momentum.” Rush ended a personal three-game losing streak with his best showing since the previous time he won as the replacement for Prescott, who is out for the season after surgery for a torn hamstring. The 117.6 passer rating was Rush's best as a starter, and the NFL's second-worst rushing attack played a solid complementary role with Rico Dowdle gaining 86 yards on 19 carries. Story continues below video KaVontae Turpin's electrifying 99-yard kickoff return did more than lift the Cowboys when it appeared an 11-point lead might get away in the final five minutes. It eased the worst day of special teams for Dallas since John Fassel took over that phase four years ago. Suddenly struggling kicker Brandon Aubrey had one field-goal attempt blocked and missed another. Bryan Anger had a punt blocked. For the second time in five games, Aubrey's attempt to bounce a kickoff in front of the return man backfired. The ball bounced outside the landing zone, putting the Commanders at the 40-yard line to start the second half and setting up the drive to the game's first touchdown. CB Josh Butler, whose NFL debut earlier this season came five years after the end of his college career, had 12 tackles, a sack and three pass breakups. The pass breakups were the most by an undrafted Dallas player since 1994. Rookie LT Tyler Guyton, who has had an up-and-down season with injuries and performance issues, was benched immediately after getting called for a false start in the fourth quarter. His replacement, Asim Richards, could be sidelined with a high ankle sprain that executive vice president of personnel Stephen Jones revealed on his radio show Monday. Veteran Chuma Edoga, who was the projected starter at Guyton's position before a preseason toe injury, was active but didn't play against the Commanders. He's awaiting his season debut. The status of perennial All-Pro RG Zack Martin (ankle/shoulder) and LG Tyler Smith (ankle/knee) will be a question on the short week after both sat against Washington. Stephen Jones indicated Smith could be available and said the same of WR Brandin Cooks, who hasn't played since Week 4 because of a knee issue. TE Jake Ferguson may miss at least a second week with a concussion. The short week might make it tough for CB Trevon Diggs (groin/knee) to return. 75% — Rush's completion rate, his best with at least 10 passes. He was 24 of 32 for 247 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. His other game with multiple TDs and no picks was a 25-10 victory over Washington two years ago, when he went 4-1 with Prescott sidelined by a broken thumb. There's some extra rest after the short week, with Cincinnati making a “Monday Night Football” visit on Dec. 9. The next road game is at Carolina on Dec. 15. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflInvest UP seeks ties with academia
At the center of the investigation are concerns about NVIDIA's potential abuse of its dominant market position, particularly in the areas of GPU technology and data center solutions. The company has faced criticism in the past for its aggressive acquisition strategies and for allegedly using its market power to stifle competition and innovation.Far-right populist surprises in Romanian presidential election appearing set to enter runoff
As the holidays approach, smartwatches and fitness trackers are popular gift ideas for health-conscious loved ones. These wearable devices continuously monitor metrics such as heart rate, oxygen levels and sleep patterns, offering insights into overall well-being. But are they merely novelties or truly beneficial health tools? Dr. Joshua Parker, a heart rhythm specialist, and Dr. Liuba Soldatova, an ear, nose and throat specialist, both employees at Cone Health, see potential benefits in wearable technologies. "There's value in wearing a monitoring device outside of the hospital," Parker said. "We only see patients for a short time. You may seem normal at the clinic but then experience issues like an irregular heartbeat at home that we'd miss without a wearable device." Soldatova highlights the Apple Watch as especially useful for tracking health data. "If your goal is insights into heart rate, oxygen levels during sleep and sleep patterns, the Apple Watch is probably the best wearable option," she said. "These devices have features for screening and monitoring certain data." Certain models from Fitbit and Garmin also track these same metrics. For patients with conditions like abnormal heart rhythms, the data can provide reassurance, Parker said. "Many of my patients feel empowered tracking their symptoms," he said. "Instead of guessing if something is wrong, they can see concrete data about what's happening." While not replacements for medical care, wearables as complementary tools, he said. "They supplement traditional care, giving patients more involvement in managing their health," Parker said. However, both doctors caution against becoming too fixated on the numbers. "Wearables are screening tools, not diagnostic devices," Soldatova said. "Don't overreact to normal variations." Ultimately, wearables offer new potential for preventative care, Parker said. "We can get continuous data year-round across different settings," he said. "That's valuable for developing personalized treatment plans." Soldatova said there are many wearable options for different lifestyles and goals. "Used responsibly, these technologies help people better understand their bodies and take a proactive role in personal wellbeing," she said.
‘Piano to Zanskar’ Conducts a Musical Journey Across the Himalayas on Documentary ShowcaseNoneTitle: Zhan Jun's Opinion on FIFPRO's Best XI: Is It More Reasonable to Replace Mbappé with Salah as Right Winger?
The company's proactive approach to asset management has not gone unnoticed. By swiftly identifying underperforming businesses and taking decisive action to divest them, the company has demonstrated its commitment to driving long-term success. The willingness to make tough decisions and prioritize the interests of investors sets a strong precedent for responsible corporate governance.In light of this harrowing case, it is crucial for regulatory bodies and authorities to tighten regulations and oversight in the cosmetic surgery industry. Stricter measures must be implemented to prevent unqualified practitioners from putting patients' lives and well-being at risk. Additionally, increased public awareness and education regarding the importance of choosing accredited healthcare providers are essential to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.In terms of his financial worth, Rashford's weekly wage of £300,000 puts him in the upper echelon of football earners. This impressive salary reflects not only his on-field performance but also his marketability and brand value. Endorsement deals, sponsorships, and image rights further contribute to Rashford's overall income, making him one of the highest-earning footballers in the world.