Episode Summary:In this fast-paced and fiery edition of The Steve Hallstrom Show, Steve dives deep into the day's top news, local developments, and political showdowns across Minnesota and North Dakota. From tragic local accidents to explosive Minnesota Twins trades, and even a bold fitness initiative from President Trump—this episode has it all. With his signature blend of candid commentary and sharp insight, Steve keeps you in the know, while special guests bring political heat. 🔑 Key Highlights & Timestamps: [0:00] Fatal Crash in MoorheadA city vehicle struck and killed a cyclist (later identified as a 9-year-old boy) near Reinertsen Elementary. Investigations ongoing. [0:34] The Minnesota State Softball Tournament Controversy“Won by a guy?” Steve throws early shade at gender politics and sports. [1:19] Vikings Preseason TeaseSteve previews the evening’s Purple & Gold preseason special (airs at 6:30 PM on WDAY). Full breakdown coming. [2:13] Feature Interview Preview: Kendall Qualls (Republican MN Governor Candidate)On Medicaid fraud, Minneapolis decline, and how conservatives can course-correct. [3:12] Minnesota Twins Fire SaleCorrea, Duran, and others gone. Steve laments the gutting of the team just before the trade deadline. “My heart sunk.” [5:07] Almanac and Markets UpdateAverage temps, market dip, oil flirtation with $70/barrel, and a quiet day for Bitcoin. [7:30] City Utility Rate Hikes in West FargoResidents can expect $0.50–$15 increases across services starting January 2026. [8:54] Cass County Jail Expansion & Warrant Crackdown192 new jail beds = time to clean up old warrants. “Better take care of your business before we come get you,” warns Steve, quoting the Sheriff. [9:55] Feather Alert LaunchesNew emergency alert system in ND for missing Indigenous persons launches August 1. [10:06] Inflation Rises & Job Cuts SoarPCE inflation hits 2.8%, and 62,000 job cuts were announced in July—a 140% increase YoY. [12:23] Trump Reinstates National Fitness Test“Make America Healthy Again” – RFK Jr. backed, Obama removed it in 2013. It’s back for schools. Also, Big Pharma gets a 60-day warning on price cuts. [14:07] Trump Extends Mexico Tariffs & Pressures Drug MakersTariff deadline pushed 90 days. Trump-style negotiation on display. [14:32] Washington Post Exodus100+ journalists take buyouts. Is this the beginning of the end for legacy media? [15:17] Minnesota Twins: Final StrawCarlos Correa to Houston. Ownership under fire. “Do they even want to win?” [17:03] Eminent Domain Debate IgnitesArmstrong & Goehring seemingly open to eminent domain for natural gas pipeline. Steve voices skepticism: “Two things can be true—you can value…