SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (Gross Realized Gains and Losses on the Sale of Securities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2023	Dec. 31, 2022	Dec. 31, 2021
Securities [Abstract]
Gross realized gains	$ 1,355	$ 0	$ 147
Gross realized losses	(42,344)	(3)	(60)
Net realized losses	(40,989)	(3)	87
Proceeds from sales of securities	$ 899,872	$ 40,686	$ 45,436