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MACAU, Dec. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Studio City International Holdings Limited (NYSE: MSC) (“Studio City” or the “Company”), a world-class integrated resort located in Cotai, Macau, today announces that the Company’s subsidiary, Studio City Company Limited (“Studio City Company”), has entered into a senior credit facilities agreement, dated November 29, 2024, with a syndicate of banks (the “2024 Credit Facilities Agreement”). Under the terms of the 2024 Credit Facilities Agreement, lenders have made available to Studio City Company HK$1.945 billion (equivalent to approximately US$250.0 million) in revolving credit facilities for a term of five years (the “Senior Revolving Facility”). The Credit Facility Agreement also provides an option to increase the commitments under the Senior Revolving Facility in an amount not exceeding US$100 million for Studio City Company to incur further indebtedness under the Senior Revolving Facility, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. The Senior Revolving Facility is secured and is supported by a guarantee from the Company, Studio City Investments Limited and each subsidiary of Studio City Company. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Senior Revolving Facility to refinance outstanding indebtedness and for general corporate and working capital purposes. Studio City Company has also entered into an amendment and restatement agreement, dated November 29, 2024, with, among others, Bank of China Limited, Macau Branch, in relation to the senior secured term loan and revolving facilities agreement dated March 15, 2021 (as amended and restated from time to time, and currently representing HK$234.0 million of committed facilities) (the “Existing Credit Facilities”) to, among other things, align certain terms of the Existing Credit Facilities with the terms of the 2024 Credit Facilities Agreement. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Studio City International Holdings Limited (the “Company”) may also make forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. These factors include, but are not limited to, (i) the pace of recovery from the impact of COVID-19 on our business, our industry and the global economy, (ii) risks associated with the amended Macau gaming law and its implementation by the Macau government, (iii) changes in the gaming market and visitations in Macau, (iv) capital and credit market volatility, (v) local and global economic conditions, (vi) our anticipated growth strategies, (vii) gaming authority and other governmental approvals and regulations, and (viii) our future business development, results of operations and financial condition. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “target”, “aim”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “believe”, “potential”, “continue”, “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. About Studio City International Holdings Limited The Company, with its American depositary shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MSC), is a world-class integrated resort located in Cotai, Macau. For more information about the Company, please visit www.studiocity-macau.com . The Company is majority owned by Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited, a company with its American depositary shares listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (Nasdaq: MLCO). For the investment community, please contact: Jeanny Kim Senior Vice President, Group Treasurer Tel: +852 2598 3698 Email: jeannykim@melco-resorts.com For media enquiries, please contact: Chimmy Leung Executive Director, Corporate Communications Tel: +852 3151 3765 Email: chimmyleung@melco-resorts.comVideo games have become an important part of millions of people’s lives, offering unique opportunities for recreation, entertainment and personal development. But what makes us spend hours in front of the screen, immersed in virtual worlds? The answer to this question lies in psychology. Games affect the brain by activating pleasure centers, stimulating creativity and developing skills. They create the perfect environment for achieving goals, socializing with like-minded people, and temporarily escaping from everyday life. In this article, we’ll delve into why we are so attracted to games and how they influence our thinking and behavior. Games as a source of fulfillment and challenge Games provide a unique opportunity to accomplish goals and overcome challenges. Completing a level, winning a tournament, or learning a new skill provides an instant sense of satisfaction, triggering the release of dopamine, the pleasure hormone. This makes games especially appealing to those looking for challenge and a clear goal. For competitive games such as Dota 2, it’s not just reactions that are important, but also the ability to strategize. The tips available on resources such as dota 2 betting tips help players improve their skills, making gameplay more fun and successful. The social side of gaming Games create a unique social space where people from different parts of the world can interact, share experiences and work in teams. This makes games a powerful tool for creating and strengthening social connections. Equally important are platforms such as https://egamersworld.com/ , which offer valuable tips for players, strategy discussions and news updates. Such resources bring the gaming community together, creating a sense of belonging and collaboration. Emotional fulfillment and escape from reality Games provide a safe space where we can distract ourselves from real-life problems and enjoy the process. They allow us to temporarily forget about stresses, creating worlds filled with adventure and possibilities. Games with an engaging story, such as The Last of Us or Red Dead Redemption, immerse us in emotional stories that help us cope with life’s challenges. For many players, these worlds become a source of inspiration and support during difficult times. Development and learning through games Many video games help develop cognitive skills such as attention, analytical thinking, and strategic planning. Simulation and strategy games like Civilization or Starcraft teach resource management and help you understand complex systems. For youth and adults, educational games like Minecraft: Education Edition become an important tool for learning math, physics, and even programming. Games teach through experimentation and creativity, making learning a fun process. Conclusion Video games are not only entertainment but also an important tool for personal and social development. They fulfill our need for achievement, create a space for socializing, and help us cope with everyday challenges. Resources such as dota 2 betting tips offer valuable advice and help players achieve success. And platforms like dota 2 betting tips support the gaming community by connecting people around the world. Gaming continues to inspire millions of players, helping them find joy, relaxation and meaning in virtual worlds.

Daniel Penny says he had no choice but to defend straphangers from Jordan Neely: ‘Never be able to live with myself’

blackdovfx/iStock via Getty Images Welcome to Seeking Alpha's Catalyst Watch - a breakdown of some of next week's actionable events that stand out. Read more about the events that may impact stock prices next week. Monday - November 25 Volatility watch - MicroStrategy (

File photo shows the Federal Trade Commission building in Washington. (AP) US President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday selected Federal Trade Commissioner Andrew Ferguson to lead the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), signaling a potential shift in the agency's priorities toward addressing perceived censorship of conservative viewpoints online. Ferguson has emphasized the need for strict antitrust enforcement against social media platforms and advertisers collaborating to suppress viewpoints. “We must vigorously enforce the antitrust laws against any platforms found to be unlawfully limiting Americans' ability to exchange ideas freely and openly,” Ferguson said recently. The appointment follows a contentious period under outgoing FTC Chair Lina Khan , who prioritized aggressive antitrust enforcement, particularly against Big Tech . While some Republicans, including incoming Vice President JD Vance, supported Khan's approach, critics argued it overstepped the agency's authority. Ferguson will inherit several ongoing cases, including antitrust lawsuits against Amazon, Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), and Microsoft. Key cases include Amazon’s alleged efforts to dominate online marketplaces and Meta’s acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp, which the FTC aims to unwind. However, a judge has expressed skepticism about the FTC's chances of success in the Meta case, set for trial in April. The FTC's future direction under Ferguson remains uncertain, particularly with probes into Microsoft’s cloud services and OpenAI’s privacy practices still pending. Observers expect his tenure to bring significant shifts, especially in enforcing antitrust laws to address ideological censorship concerns.Interim Results from STOMP Study of SIGA’s Tecovirimat in Treatment of Mpox Announced

Trump says he had a 'productive meeting' with Trudeau after two met for surprise dinner in Florida

All-star Vancouver Canucks goalie Thatcher Demko will make his first start of the season Tuesday. Head coach Rick Tocchet confirmed after morning skate that Demko will be in net when the Canucks host the St. Louis Blues. The 28-year-old netminder from San Diego, Calif., last played on April 24 when the Canucks bested the Nashville Predators in Game 1 of a first-round playoff series. He suffered an injury to the popliteus muscle in his knee during the game and has been working his way back ever since. A number of factors led to Demko starting Tuesday, Tocchet said. “You want him to feel comfortable. You want to, obviously, communicate with him,” he said. “(Kevin Lankinen) was playing well, too. So there wasn’t a pressing issue to get him in. But we want to get him in. We’re excited. Obviously he’s a huge part of our team.” Demko had a 35-14-2 record with a .918 save percentage, a 2.45 goals-against average and five shutouts in regular-season play last year and played in the all-star game for the second time in his career. The veteran goalie is managing his personal expectations as he returns to game action, however. “I think it’d be foolish to say that I’m going to come back and be perfectly sharp and feel like I have my ‘A’ game in game one. Obviously, that takes a little bit of time,” Demko told reporters last week. “Just seeing game reps and things is kind of a last step of fully doing rehab. So I’m not really putting an expectation on that. “Obviously, the way Lanks has played kind of takes a little bit of pressure off of myself to come in and not feel like I have to save the world.” Demko returned to Vancouver’s lineup last week, backing up Lankinen for games against the Columbus Blue Jackets and Tampa Bay Lightning. The Canucks signed Lankinen to a US$875,000 deal during training camp and the Finnish goaltender has split the crease with Arturs Silovs this season, backstopping Vancouver to a 14-8-4 record. Lankinen has been “unbelievable” this season, Demko said. “It’s been really fun to get to know him and be able to watch him play,” he said. “It’s a challenging position he was put in, coming into a new team and being able to manage the workload that he’s been given.” Demko’s return to the crease should act as motivation for the Canucks’ skaters as the team takes on the Blues, Tocchet said. “I think, when you look at the way Demmer has worked hard to get back, a lot of lonely times by himself, it should give guys juice that you want to play well in front of him,” the coach said. You’d be crazy not to. “Maybe there’s extra shot blocking, situations to get the puck in deep when we’re tired to give him a break, things like that. I think we need to do that tonight for him.”

Making a $1B investment in the US? Trump pledges expedited permits — but there are hurdles WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is promising expedited federal permits for energy projects and other construction worth more than $1 billion. But like other Trump plans, the idea is likely to run into regulatory and legislative hurdles, including a landmark law that requires federal agencies to consider the environmental impact before deciding on major projects. Environmental groups called the plan a clear violation of the National Environmental Policy Act. The chief policy advocacy officer at the Natural Resources Defense Council says Trump should be careful what he wishes for. She said, "What if someone wants to build a waste incinerator next to Mar-a-Lago or a coal mine next to Bedminster golf course?” Trump names Andrew Ferguson as head of Federal Trade Commission to replace Lina Khan WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump has named Andrew Ferguson to be the next chair of the Federal Trade Commission. Ferguson is already one of the FTC's five commissioners. He will replace Lina Khan, who became a lightning rod for Wall Street and Silicon Valley by blocking billions of dollars’ worth of corporate acquisitions and suing Amazon and Meta while alleging anticompetitive behavior. Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday evening that Ferguson has “a proven record of standing up to Big Tech censorship, and protecting Freedom of Speech in our Great Country.” The replacement of Khan likely means that the FTC will operate with a lighter touch when it comes to antitrust enforcement. Proposed merger of Kroger and Albertsons is halted by federal, state judges The proposed $24.6 billion merger between supermarket giants Kroger and Albertsons floundered on Tuesday after judges overseeing two separate cases both halted the merger. A federal judge in Oregon temporarily blocked the proposed merger until an in-house administrative judge at the Federal Trade Commission considers it. Shortly afterward, a judge in Washington state issued a permanent injunction barring the merger in that state, saying it lessens competition. Kroger and Albertsons in 2022 proposed what would be the largest grocery store merger in U.S. history. But the Federal Trade Commission and the state of Washington sued earlier this year. Kroger and Albertsons said Tuesday they are disappointed in the decisions and are reviewing their options. Biden says he was 'stupid' not to put his name on pandemic relief checks like Trump did WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden says he was “stupid” not to put his own name on pandemic relief checks in 2021, like Donald Trump had done in 2020. He noted Tuesday in a speech at the Brookings Institution that Trump likely got credit for helping people out through this simple, effective act of branding. Biden did the second-guessing as he defended his economic record and challenged Trump to preserve Democratic policy ideas when he returns to the White House next month. Trump’s decision to add his name to the checks sent by the U.S. Treasury to millions of Americans struggling during the coronavirus marked the first time a president’s name appeared on any IRS payments. Former chairman of state-owned bank China Everbright Group jailed for 12 years for corruption BEIJING (AP) — Chinese official broadcaster CCTV says a former chairman of the state-owned bank China Everbright Group has been jailed 12 years for embezzlement and bribery. Tang Shuangning, who had also held senior posts at the People’s Bank of China and the China Banking Regulatory Commission, was arrested in January, part of a wider wave of prosecutions of senior officials accused of financial crimes. A court in the city of Tangshan, about 100 miles east of Beijing, found him guilty of taking advantage of his position at the state-owned bank in “seeking convenience for others” in jobs and loans, in exchange for illegal payments. The court said he had accepted illegal property with a total value of more than $1.5 million. Trustee over Infowars auction asks court to approve The Onion's winning bid A trustee who oversaw the bankruptcy auction of Alex Jones’ Infowars is asking a judge to approve The Onion’s winning bid for the conspiracy-filled platform. Trustee Christopher Murray took the stand Tuesday in the second day of testimony at a hearing where a judge is scrutinizing the satirical news outlet’s winning offer. He told U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez in Houston that he was there asking a court to approve the sale of Infowars’ parent company to The Onion’s parent company. It is not clear how quickly Lopez will rule. The Onion wants to turn Infowars’ website and social media accounts into parodies. GM to retreat from robotaxis and stop funding its Cruise autonomous vehicle unit DETROIT (AP) — General Motors says it will retreat from the robotaxi business and stop funding its money-losing Cruise autonomous vehicle unit. Instead the Detroit automaker will focus on development of partially automated driver-assist systems like its Super Cruise, which allows drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel. In a statement Tuesday, GM said it would get out of robotaxis due to what it described as the considerable time and resources that would be needed to scale the business, along with an increasingly competitive robotaxi market. What did you Google in 2024? From the elections to Copa América, here's what search trends show NEW YORK (AP) — Remember what you searched for in 2024? Google does. Google has released its annual “Year in Search," rounding up 2024's top trending searches. It shows terms that saw the highest spike in traffic compared to last year. Sports — particularly soccer and cricket — dominated overall search trends, led by queries for Copa América, the UEFA European Championship and ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, the U.S. election led news-specific searches worldwide. Queries about excessive heat and this year’s Olympic Games followed. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump topped searches in Google’s people category this year — followed by Catherine, Princess of Wales, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif. US defense secretary in Japan to support alliance as Osprey aircraft safety causes concern TOKYO (AP) — U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has met with officials in Japan to reaffirm the importance of their alliance and Washington's commitment to regional security as threats rise from China and North Korea. Austin’s visit on Tuesday also came amid growing concerns over the safety of Ospreys. The military aircraft have been grounded in the United States following a near crash at Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico last month. The incident was caused by weakened metal components. It was similar to a fatal crash off southwestern Japan last year. The U.S. measure prompted the suspension of Ospreys operated by Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force. Small businesses plan events, start marketing earlier to deal with shorter holiday shopping season The holiday shopping season is underway, and this year small businesses have less time to capitalize on the busy shopping period. Only 27 days separate Thanksgiving and Christmas — five fewer than last year. But there are still ways to make the most of a shorter season. One key strategy is for owners to promote deals to customers wherever they can, from social media to physical ads. The National Retail Federation predicts that retail sales will rise between 2.5% and 3.5% compared with same period a year ago. Online shopping is expected to grow too. Adobe Digital Insights predicts an 8.4% increase online for the full season.Trump nominates cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins as SEC chair

Michelle Goth There is always that one dish on the Thanksgiving table – overlooked while the mashed potatoes and gravy steal the spotlight. Surprisingly, this much-maligned side dish has been a part of American tradition for centuries and holds endless possibilities beyond its original purpose, perfectly suited to be reinvented in unexpected ways. Despite its deep roots in Thanksgiving history, this dish remains one of the most polarizing items on the table today. What is this least popular Thanksgiving dish? Cranberry sauce. Cranberry sauce has been part of American cuisine for centuries. Native Americans used cranberries in cooking and medicine, and early European settlers followed suit, incorporating the berries into sauces and preserves. By the 19th century, cranberry sauce became a Thanksgiving tradition, although recipes varied by region. The introduction of canned cranberry sauce in the 20th century made it even more popular, cementing its spot as an expected accompaniment for Thanksgiving turkey on tables across the country. Those who do enjoy cranberry sauce probably have a strong opinion about what form is acceptable. Some people prefer canned cranberry sauce for its nostalgic jiggle, while others insist that fresh, homemade cranberry sauce is the only way to go. Homemade whole berry sauce is the top choice for many, with its texture and flavor offering something truly special. A 2021 survey by the grocery delivery service Instacart found that cranberry sauce is the least favorite Thanksgiving dish, with 29% of American adults saying they hate it and nearly 50% calling it disgusting. This makes cranberry sauce the most polarizing and the most disliked dish on the Thanksgiving table. Even though it ranks as the least favorite dish, omitting cranberry sauce from the holiday meal is still considered a bit of a Thanksgiving faux pas . Regardless of what kind of cranberry sauce graces the table, its lack of popularity guarantees leftovers. But do not let those leftovers go to waste; there are plenty of creative and delicious ways to use cranberry sauce beyond the Thanksgiving table. Leftover cranberry sauce? There is no need to despair. Here are some fun, delicious and inventive ways to give those leftovers a new purpose. Cranberry grilled cheese Cranberry sauce is the perfect addition to a grilled cheese sandwich. Layer sharp cheddar or brie cheese, turkey leftovers and a spoonful of cranberry sauce between two slices of sourdough bread. The tart cranberry cuts through the richness of the cheese for a perfectly balanced bite. To feed a crowd, consider making a casserole dish of turkey cranberry sliders with leftover sauce and turkey meat. Cranberry vinaigrette To make a simple salad dressing, grab a mason jar and add a tablespoon of leftover cranberry sauce. Pour in a splash of white balsamic vinegar and an equal portion of olive oil. Add pinches of fresh herbs, salt and pepper. Secure the lid, shake well and drizzle the zesty cranberry vinaigrette over an autumn salad with lettuce, gorgonzola cheese, pecans and dried cranberries. Cranberry BBQ sauce For an easy homemade barbecue sauce, mix leftover cranberry sauce with ketchup or chili sauce, a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of brown sugar. The result is a tangy barbecue sauce that pairs beautifully with cocktail meatballs , roasted chicken or pork chops. Guests will never guess that the base of your homemade barbecue sauce was the leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving. Cranberry yogurt parfait For a quick breakfast or snack, layer cranberry sauce with vanilla Greek yogurt and granola for a simple yet elegant autumn parfait. The sweetness of the granola and the tanginess of the cranberry sauce make for a great flavor balance. For bonus points, add a drizzle of maple syrup and pecans. Cocktail mixer Yes, cranberry sauce can be used in cocktails. To make a festive drink, shake a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce with vodka, a splash of orange juice and a squeeze of simple syrup. Add ice and a fresh rosemary sprig, and the result is a tart, refreshing cocktail perfect for the holiday season. Related Articles Restaurants Food and Drink | Pie crust 101: How tos from longtime instructor Restaurants Food and Drink | Tips for Thanksgiving turkey-roasting success Restaurants Food and Drink | Beer pairings for your holiday feasts Restaurants Food and Drink | Make these Tahini-Roasted Sweet Potatoes for Thanksgiving Restaurants Food and Drink | How to eat great food in New Orleans without going broke For centuries, cranberry sauce has been a staple on the American Thanksgiving table. While it continues to be viewed as a traditional holiday dish by most Americans, an emerging trend shows chefs, food bloggers and home cooks finding new ways to incorporate cranberry sauce into various recipes throughout the year. Cranberry sauce may never steal the spotlight during Thanksgiving dinner, where traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, buttery rolls and pies often take center stage. However, its creative uses can elevate it as a standout ingredient in the days that follow. As Thanksgiving cleanup commences and a bowl of leftover sauce remains, there is no need to worry. This underdog simply requires a bit of creativity to shine. Michelle Goth is a professionally trained cook and cookbook author dedicated to celebrating Midwestern cooking traditions. She shares easy recipes for family dinners and holidays at Blackberry Babe .

ATLANTA (AP) — Already reeling from their November defeats, Democrats now are grappling with President Joe Biden’s pardoning of his son for federal crimes, with some calling the move misguided and unwise after the party spent years slamming Donald Trump as a threat to democracy who disregarded the law. The president pardoned Hunter Biden late Sunday evening, reversing his previous pledges with a grant of clemency that covers more than a decade of any federal crimes his son might have committed. The 82-year-old president said in a statement that his son’s prosecution on charges of tax evasion and falsifying a federal weapons purchase form were politically motivated. “He believes in the justice system, but he also believes that politics infected the process and led to a miscarriage of justice,” said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, who along with Biden and other White House officials insisted for months that Hunter Biden would not get a pardon . That explanation did not satisfy some Democrats, angry that Biden’s reversal could make it harder to take on Trump , who has argued that multiple indictments and one conviction against him were a matter of Biden and Democrats turning the justice system against him. “This is a bad precedent that could be abused by later Presidents and will sadly tarnish his reputation,” Colorado Gov. Jared Polis wrote of Biden on the social media platform X. “When you become President, your role is Pater familias of the nation,” the governor continued, a reference to the president invoking fatherhood in explaining his decision. “Hunter brought the legal trouble he faced on himself, and one can sympathize with his struggles while also acknowledging that no one is above the law, not a President and not a President’s son.” Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., said on X: “This wasn’t a politically motivated prosecution. Hunter committed felonies and was convicted by a jury of his peers.” Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet said Biden “put personal interest ahead of duty” with a decision that “further erodes Americans’ faith that the justice system is fair and equal for all.” Michigan Sen. Gary Peters said the pardon was “an improper use of power” that erodes faith in government and “emboldens others to bend justice to suit their interests.” Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., called the pardon “understandable” if viewed only as the “action of a loving father.” But Biden's status as “our nation's Chief Executive," the senator said, rendered the move “unwise.” Certainly, the president has Democratic defenders who note Trump’s use of presidential power to pardon a slew of his convicted aides, associates and friends, several for activities tied to Trump’s campaign and first administration. “Trump pardoned Roger Stone, Steve Bannon, Michael Flynn and Paul Manafort, as well as his son-in-law’s father, Charles Kushner — who he just appointed US ambassador to France,” wrote prominent Democratic fundraiser Jon Cooper on X. Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison said there “is no standard for Donald Trump, and the highest standard for Democrats and Joe Biden.” Harrison pointed to Trump's apparent plans to oust FBI Director Christopher Wray and replace him with loyalist Kash Patel and suggested the GOP's pursuit of Hunter Biden would not have ended without clemency. “Most people will see that Joe Biden did what was right,” Harrison said. First lady Jill Biden said Monday from the White House, “Of course I support the pardon of my son.” Democrats already are facing the prospects of a Republican trifecta in Washington, with voters returning Trump to the White House and giving the GOP control of the House and Senate. Part of their argument against Trump and Republican leaders is expected to be that the president-elect is violating norms with his talk of taking retribution against his enemies. Before beating Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump faced his own legal troubles, including two cases that stemmed from his efforts to overturn his defeat to Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election. Those cases, including Trump’s sentencing after being convicted on New York state business fraud charges, have either been dismissed or indefinitely delayed since Trump’s victory on Nov. 5, forcing Democrats to recalibrate their approach to the president-elect. In June, President Biden firmly ruled out a pardon or commutation for his son, telling reporters as his son faced trial in the Delaware gun case: “I abide by the jury decision. I will do that and I will not pardon him.” As recently as Nov. 8, days after Trump’s victory, Jean-Pierre ruled out a pardon or clemency for the younger Biden, saying: “We’ve been asked that question multiple times. Our answer stands, which is no.” The president’s about-face came weeks before Hunter Biden was set to receive his punishment after his trial conviction in the gun case and guilty plea on tax charges. It capped a long-running legal saga for the younger Biden, who disclosed he was under federal investigation in December 2020 — a month after his father’s 2020 victory. The sweeping pardon covers not just the gun and tax offenses against the younger Biden, but also any other “offenses against the United States which he has committed or may have committed or taken part in during the period from January 1, 2014, through December 1, 2024.” Hunter Biden was convicted in June in Delaware federal court of three felonies for purchasing a gun in 2018 when , prosecutors said, he lied on a federal form by claiming he was not illegally using or addicted to drugs. He had been set to stand trial in September in a California case accusing him of failing to pay at least $1.4 million in taxes. But he agreed to plead guilty to misdemeanor and felony charges in a surprise move hours after jury selection was set to begin. In his statement Sunday, the president argued that such offenses typically are not prosecuted with the same vigor as was directed against Hunter Biden. “The charges in his cases came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election,” Biden said in his statement. “No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter’s cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son. ... I hope Americans will understand why a father and a President would come to this decision.” Associated Press journalists Will Weissert aboard Air Force One and Darlene Superville, Mary Claire Jalonick and Michael Tackett in Washington contributed to this report.