This episode of The Steve Hallstrom Show focuses on a major international ultimatum, a significant shift in local Fargo politics, and upcoming state budgetary decisions. International Tension: The Iran Ultimatum Host Steve Hallstrom discusses a high-stakes social media post from President Trump, who issued a stark warning to the Iranian regime. The Deadline: Trump set a 7:00 PM deadline for Iran to agree to a deal to open the Strait of Hormuz. The Warning: The President warned that "a whole civilization will die in Iran tonight" if the country’s leaders do not comply. Military Escalation: U.S. and Israeli strikes have reportedly escalated ahead of this deadline. Local Politics: Fargo Mayoral Race The show covers a "surprise" development in the race for the next leader of Fargo. Michelle Turnburg: The current Fargo City Commissioner officially announced her candidacy for mayor on the final day of filing. Five-Horse Race: Turnburg joins a field that includes Dave Piepkorn, Denise Kolpack, Josh Boschee, and Arlette Preston. Platform: In an interview, Turnburg emphasizes a return to conservative values, focusing on "core city services" such as public safety (police and fire), street maintenance, and water, while vowing to reign in city spending and debt. State Government and Elections Hallstrom interviews key North Dakota officials regarding the state's future and upcoming elections. Secretary of State Michael Howe: Discussed the finalization of the June primary ballot. He highlighted Measure 1, a constitutional measure that would limit future constitutional amendments to a single subject to prevent "logrolling" multiple issues into one vote. Governor Kelly Armstrong: Provided a preview of his executive budget guidelines. His goals for the upcoming biennium include curbing the growth of government by avoiding new major construction projects and maintaining a flat headcount for state employees. School Lunch Debate: The show briefly touches on an organic, North Dakota-driven effort to provide free school lunches for all students, which is expected to appear on the November ballot. Market and Weather Updates Hallstrom provides a "Morning Wire" rundown of current conditions in Fargo and the broader economy. Economic Downturn: Stock markets opened with significant losses; the Dow was down 392 points, the S&P 500 down 61, and the Nasdaq down 291. Energy Prices: Crude oil (WTI) has risen to $116 per barrel, contributing to a national average gas price of $4.14 per gallon. Fargo Weather: The morning started at a chilly 7°F, though the average high for early…

Following a high-stakes Easter weekend, Steve provided a comprehensive look at the global and local events shaping the region this Monday morning. From a dramatic military rescue in the Middle East to a rare spring blizzard in the Red River Valley, here are the top stories from the April 6, 2025, broadcast. A "Masterclass in Military Precision": Airman Rescued in Iran The program opened with a detailed account of what host Steve Hallstrom described as a "masterclass in military precision". Over the weekend, the U.S. military successfully rescued a missing airman in Southwestern Iran. The airman’s F-15 was reportedly shot down over a mountainous region on Good Friday. The pilot was recovered within seven hours, but a highly respected Colonel serving as the weapon systems officer had to evade a "manhunt" by hiding in a remote mountain crevice. Despite an Iranian bounty and intense conditions, a "lethal shield" of aircraft protected the area until he was safely extracted late Saturday night. No U.S. service members were killed during the operation. North Dakota Election Deadlines Loom Shifting to local governance, Hallstrom issued a final reminder to those seeking office in North Dakota. Today, April 6, at 4:00 PM, marks the official deadline for candidates to turn in petitions or nominations to the Secretary of State’s office to appear on the June primary ballot. This applies to congressional, statewide, legislative, and judicial district seats. Fargo Digs Out from "White Easter" Blizzard Chief Meteorologist Dean Weissacker joined the show to recap a historic weather event for the Red River Valley. While the region is accustomed to "White Christmases," this year brought a rare "White Easter". The Fargo metro area recorded 10.4 inches of snow on Saturday alone, with the combined storm total reaching 13.5 inches. Some areas near Jamestown and Lisbon saw totals as high as 15 inches. Weissacker noted that while the storm provided much-needed moisture—melting down to 1.41 inches of liquid—the frozen ground means much of it will result in runoff rather than deep soil absorption. Health Alert: The Hidden Danger in Your Wallet In a segment focused on public health, the show explored the surprising risks associated with everyday credit card and grocery receipts. Most receipts are printed on "thermal paper," which uses a heat-activated chemical layer containing BPA (Bisphenol A) or BPS (Bisphenol S). Research suggests these chemicals are potent endocrine disruptors that can be absorbed through the skin, especially…

In a packed Tuesday morning broadcast, Steve Hallstrom breaks down a whirlwind of local and global news, ranging from a looming double-header spring storm in the Red River Valley to the shifting geopolitical tides of the war in Iran. Steve offers a candid look at how global conflict is beginning to "take the wind out of the sails" for the 2026 U.S. economy, despite early-year optimism. Between deep dives into record-breaking oil prices and the 75th anniversary of North Dakota’s oil discovery, the show explores a growing sense of unrest and a desire for independence—not just in the Middle East, but as close as Alberta, Canada. Key Moments A "Whopper" of a Spring Storm Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki joins the show to map out a complex, two-part weather system hitting the region. Expect heavy, wet "heart attack snow" starting Wednesday night, with a second round following on Friday. While Fargo might see 4 to 8 inches, areas to the south could be buried under more than a foot. The $100 Barrel Dilemma North Dakota Petroleum Council President Ron Ness discusses WTI crude oil hitting its highest prices since 2022. While high prices mean a massive tax windfall for North Dakota—roughly $8 million a day—Ness warns that rapid spikes can act as a drag on the broader economy and input costs for farmers. The "Stay Free Alberta" Movement Steve examines a surprising independence petition in Alberta, Canada, which has garnered over 175,000 signatures. With a potential referendum on the horizon for October, the show discusses the legal hurdles of secession and the growing global trend of citizens pushing back against federal overreach. The 2026 Economic Reality Check In a featured commentary, Steve revisits his New Year’s predictions. He argues that the prolonged conflict in Iran and rising inflation at the pump are shifting 2026 from a "banner year" to a more "neutral" or "muted" one, emphasizing how business optimism is being stifled by persistent interest rates. A National Rededication The "Best Thing I Heard All Day" features President Trump’s announcement of a massive gathering on the National Mall scheduled for May 17, 2026. The event is billed as a formal rededication of the U.S. as "one nation under God" to kick off the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The Particle Board Prophecy To close on a high note, Steve highlights a viral video of a contractor celebrating a massive drop in lumber…

Steve Hallstrom kicks off a high-stakes Monday edition as the region prepares for Holy Week amidst rising geopolitical and economic tensions. With crude oil crossing the $100-per-barrel mark, Steve dives into the "CPAC Straw Poll" results for 2028 and a chilling report on $350 million in cash leaving the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport. The show features a deep dive into the controversial practice of civil asset forfeiture with filmmaker Patrick Reasonover and a live update from NDSU as the State Board of Higher Education prepares to name the university’s next president. Plus, a look at the "family compound" trend and why billionaires are fleeing California for Texas. Key Moments NDSU Presidential Decision Day: Reporter Chris Larson joins the show live from the NDSU campus, where the final three candidates—Dr. Marshall Stewart, Dr. Bernie Savarese, and Dr. Alan Smith—are undergoing their second round of interviews. Steve previews the executive session where the Board of Higher Education will officially name the new president later this afternoon. When Cops Become Robbers: Documentary producer Patrick Reasonover discusses his new film exploring civil asset forfeiture. He explains how the policy allows law enforcement to seize property based on mere suspicion without a criminal conviction, and why 85% of Americans across the political spectrum now view the practice as un-American. The $350 Million MSP Cash Trail: Steve analyzes a startling report that $350 million in cash left the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport last year—more than any other airport in the U.S. Steve calls for a federal investigation, questioning the lack of state authority over these massive and suspicious outflows. The 2028 Republican Straw Poll: Following the CPAC convention, Steve breaks down the early 2028 frontrunners. J.D. Vance leads the pack with 53%, followed by Marco Rubio at 35%. Steve explores the possibility of a Vance-Rubio ticket and what it means for the future of the conservative movement. North Dakota National Guard Deployment: Public Affairs Officer Nathan Rivard joins to discuss 60 soldiers from the 131st Military Police Battalion heading to D.C. The volunteer mission supports a presidential executive order to combat rising crime in the nation’s capital through community safety patrols. Billionaires Fleeing the Wealth Tax: Steve reports on Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick’s move from California to Texas just 14 days before a proposed retroactive billionaire tax would have taken effect. Steve argues that "money won't stick around" where it is adversarialized by state governments. The "Family…

A high-stakes Friday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show takes listeners inside a pivotal moment for the nation as President Trump convenes a crucial Cabinet meeting. Steve breaks down the President’s "Unleash Hell" warning to Iran and the startling intelligence that the regime was weeks away from a nuclear weapon. Back at home, the show exposes a massive technological "oversight" in Minnesota that allowed state funds to flow to overseas IP addresses untracked. Plus, the Trump administration’s E15 pivot for farmers, a "final salute" for an unclaimed Fargo Marine, and a remarkable story of faith from a South Sudanese leader living in the Red River Valley. Key Moments Live from the Cabinet Room: Steve carries audio from President Trump’s latest Cabinet meeting. The President announces that 90% of Iran’s missile launchers have been destroyed and details how B-2 bombers obliterated nuclear facilities just weeks before Iran could finalize an atomic bomb. He warns the regime to deal now "before it is too late." The IP Address Smoking Gun: In a "best thing I heard all day" segment, Steve highlights explosive testimony from the Minnesota State Legislature. It was revealed that the state’s daycare billing system was designed without IP address tracking, allowing money to be billed from Japan and other overseas locations. Steve notes that officials turned on tracking for only two weeks before shutting it back off. The E15 Year-Round Win: Brenda Elmer, Executive Director of the North Dakota Corn Growers Association, joins the show to discuss the Trump administration’s decision to lift summer restrictions on E15 fuel. She explains how this move could create demand for an additional 2.4 billion bushels of corn annually, providing a vital lifeline to struggling regional farmers. Justice for an Unclaimed Marine: Steve shares the touching story of Susan Benson, a pioneering female Marine being buried today at Fargo National Cemetery. With no next of kin to claim her remains, Steve honors her service from 1958-1960 and invites the community to ensure she receives a dignified military burial. The TSA Pay Executive Order: As the DHS shutdown enters day 41 and TSA "call-outs" reach 47% in some airports, Steve details President Trump’s plan to use executive powers to pay agents immediately. He also breaks down Senate action to fund the department while excluding ICE and border protection. From South Sudan to Fargo: Steve introduces Abouk, a "Paramount Chief" and Christian believer from South…

Steve Hallstrom delivers a high-stakes Thursday edition, taking listeners inside the White House as President Trump convenes his most consequential Cabinet meeting to date. With "Operation Epic Fury" entering its fourth week, Steve provides live coverage of the President's updates on the total dismantling of Iran’s military capabilities and the high-stakes ultimatum given to Tehran. Back at home, the show tackles the $5 million budget crisis at Fargo Public Schools, the Trump administration’s major E15 ethanol pivot for corn growers, and a remarkable story of faith and political aspiration from a South Sudanese leader living in Fargo. Key Moments Live from the Cabinet Meeting: Steve carries audio from a pivotal Cabinet meeting where President Trump announces that 90% of Iran’s missile launchers have been destroyed. The President details the "obliteration" of the Iranian Navy and issues a final warning for the regime to accept a 15-point peace proposal "before it is too late." Economic Security as National Security: Vice President J.D. Vance and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent break down the strategy of "maximum pressure." Bessent reveals that 44% of Americans are already seeing the benefits of "no tax on tips and overtime" in their tax refunds, while Vance highlights the mission to ensure the "worst people in the world" never obtain a nuclear weapon. Fargo Schools’ Leadership Sacrifice: Fargo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Steiner joins the show to discuss his unusual request to freeze his $220,000 salary. Amidst a $5 million budget shortfall and potential staff cuts, Steiner explains why he felt it was essential to "model the behavior" he is asking of the district. The E15 Ethanol Win: Brenda Elmer, Executive Director of the North Dakota Corn Growers Association, reacts to the Trump administration’s move to allow year-round E15 fuel sales. She explains how permanent year-round access could create a 2.4 billion-bushel demand for corn—roughly the entire annual output of the state of Iowa. From South Sudan to the Red River Valley: Steve introduces Abouk, a Christian believer and "Paramount Chief" with political aspirations in South Sudan. Currently a healthcare provider in Fargo, Abouk shares her mission to bring life-saving medical supplies back to her home country and her perspective on American values. ICE at the Airports: Success or Stunt?: Steve breaks down the data following the deployment of ICE agents to 14 national airports. Despite political pushback, Steve cites wait-time statistics showing security lines have been cut…

Steve Hallstrom navigates a high-stakes Wednesday as the war in Iran enters a critical new phase with the potential deployment of the 82nd Airborne. Steve dives into a "masterclass" from Victor Davis Hanson on the radical transformation of the Democrat Party and welcomes Fargo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Steiner to discuss his unusual request for a pay freeze amidst budget shortfalls. The show also explores the "Herdina Construction Camp" as a gateway to high-paying trade careers, the unsealed warrants in a heinous local murder case, and a suspicious guilty plea in a Minnesota voter fraud case. Key Moments The "Socialist Revolution" Doctrine: In the "best thing I heard all day," Steve features Victor Davis Hanson’s breakdown of the modern Democrat Party. Hanson argues the party has moved from traditional labor roots to a "full-blown socialist revolutionary party" that views the world through a Marxist binary of oppressors versus the oppressed. 82nd Airborne Bound for Iran?: Steve discusses reports that the Pentagon is preparing to send ground forces from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. With 9,000 combat flights already completed, Steve argues that if the threat of nuclear enrichment is real, the U.S. must "finish the job" rather than settling for a partial victory. Modeling Leadership: The $220k Pay Freeze: Dr. Corey Steiner, Fargo Public Schools Superintendent, joins the show to explain why he asked the board to freeze his salary. While the district faces a $5 million shortfall and potential staff cuts, Steiner argues he cannot ask others to sacrifice if he isn't willing to model that behavior himself. The Suspicious Hubbard County Guilty Plea: Steve analyzes the guilty plea of a Minnesota election judge who allowed 11 unregistered people to vote in 2024. Steve expresses skepticism, questioning if this "red county" instance is being over-amplified to distract from potential widespread issues in deep-blue metro areas. Building the Future: Herdina Trades Camp: Aaron Kochman (Kochman Brothers Homes) and Brooks Peterson (M-State) join the studio to discuss the 20-year legacy of the Herdina Construction Camp. They highlight how the trades are outpacing four-year degrees in return on investment and why "new blood" is desperately needed to counter an industry "brain drain." The Disgusting Details of the Height Case: Steve reports on newly unsealed warrants in the Joshua Height murder investigation. Details reveal police used GPS tracking on Height’s vehicle and are currently searching for a specific black-and-red…

Steve Hallstrom delivers a high-octane Tuesday edition, breaking down a massive 1,100-point surge in the Dow as the market reacts to a strategic five-day pause in the Iran conflict. Steve dives into a viral proposal from Minnesota State Rep. Walter Hudson about the return of "family compounds" and multi-generational housing as a defense against a "modern wilderness" of high costs. The show also explores a strange case of felony voter fraud in Hubbard County, a tragic collision at LaGuardia Airport, and a "Common Sense 101" lesson from Michigan State's Tom Izzo. Plus, evidence mounting against Minnesota leadership and why the "pessimists" in the financial media are usually the ones you should ignore. Key Moments The Return of the Clan: Steve discusses a thought-provoking thread by Rep. Walter Hudson and Matt Walsh. As housing, insurance, and taxes make independent living nearly impossible for the next generation, they argue for a shift toward "clans" and family compounds where families circle the wagons to ensure their children’s success. The "Rip Your Face Off" Rally: Financial advisor Brian Kronk and trader Thomas Evans join the money conversation. Steve explores the data-driven "15-day bottom" theory, explaining why geopolitical events tend to bottom out three weeks into a conflict, setting the stage for a massive rally based on the expectation of peace. Voter Fraud in Hubbard County: Steve analyzes the felony guilty plea of an election judge in Nevis, Minnesota, who allowed 11 unregistered people to vote. While the Secretary of State calls it "unprecedented," Steve questions if this is being used as a convenient "red county" example to distract from larger issues. Tragedy at LaGuardia: Steve reports on the effective shutdown of one of the world's busiest airports following a fatal runway collision between an Air Canada Express plane and a rescue vehicle that resulted in the deaths of two pilots. The "America Has Gotten Soft" Doctrine: Steve plays a clip from legendary basketball coach Tom Izzo, who reminds the country that "playing real good to earn your spot" is the American way—even if some believe the country has lost its edge. Evidence Against the "Trifecta": Steve previews comments from Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, who claims to have evidence involving Tim Walz and Keith Ellison that the "Freedom Caucus" in Minnesota is prepared to use. ICE at the Airports: With 47% of TSA agents calling in sick at some major hubs due to the government…

Steve Hallstrom navigates a high-velocity Monday as the region balances March Madness celebrations with sobering economic realities. After a weekend of "better than expected" weather and historic high school sports finishes, Steve dives into a bold proposal for "family compounds" from a Minnesota lawmaker and the rising financial hurdle for the next generation. The show also explores a major shakeup at the border and in the skies, as ICE agents are deployed to major airports like LaGuardia to clear security gridlock. Plus, a look at the "nitrogen trap" forcing farmers into soybeans, the fight for the new Minnesota flag, and a primer for the Bison men’s matchup against Michigan State. Key Moments The Family Compound Vision: Steve discusses a thought-provoking proposal from Minnesota State Rep. Walter Hudson. In an age of high costs and shifting values, Hudson suggests a return to "clans" or multi-generational housing to help adult children succeed in a modern wilderness where independence has become financially impossible for many. ICE Meets TSA: Amidst a partial government shutdown and mass TSA call-outs, Steve breaks down President Trump’s directive to deploy ICE agents to security checkpoints. Steve discusses the logistics of this move and the high-stakes offer from Elon Musk to personally fund TSA salaries to keep the country moving. The "Nitrogen Trap" and Grocery Bills: Steve explores the "irreversible consequence" of the war in Iran on local kitchen tables. He details how soaring fertilizer costs—up 35% in a month—are forcing farmers to pivot from corn to soybeans, a shift that could drive up meat and dairy prices for the next 18 months. Fargo’s Leadership in Transition: As Fargo Public Schools faces a budget crisis, Steve praises Superintendent Dr. Corey Steiner for offering to freeze his own salary. Meanwhile, Steve provides the latest on the NDSU presidential search as the university narrows its list to three national finalists. The Flag Rebellion Continues: While East Grand Forks votes to stick with the new "Somalia-style" flag, other cities like Zumbrota are joining the push to fly the original 1957 Minnesota flag. Steve explores the growing divide between state regulations and local identity. A New Textbook on Class: Steve highlights the Central McLean boys basketball team, who showed remarkable sportsmanship after winning the state championship. Instead of storming the court, the undefeated team prioritized shaking hands with their opponents, writing a new textbook on "winning with class." The Welfare Usage Debate: Steve…

Steve Hallstrom delivers a high-stakes Friday edition, navigating a complex landscape of public health reports, utility price shocks, and the final stages of a major regional leadership search. Steve dives into over 100 new studies linking mRNA vaccines to myocarditis and cancer, while tackling the 10.6% natural gas rate hike hitting North Dakota families. The show features a "maiden voyage" interview with attorney Rachel Paulos on the lawsuit against the city of Minneapolis and a deep dive into the 200,000 truck drivers facing a federal licensing crackdown. Plus, a surprisingly traditional cultural shift at the Oscars and a tribute to the legendary Chuck Norris. Key Moments The NDSU Presidential Finalists: The search for NDSU’s next leader hits the finish line. Steve reveals the three finalists: Marshall Stewart (Kansas State), Bernie Savarese (University of Tennessee), and Alan Smith (Utah State). He previews their upcoming campus presentations and the State Board of Higher Education's fast-tracked selection process. A 25% Increase in Cancer Hospitalizations?: In a powerful "best thing I heard all day," Steve discusses new epidemiological reports from Dr. Nicholas Hulsher. The data, involving 8.4 million people, suggests mRNA vaccinated groups saw a 25% higher rate of cancer hospitalizations compared to the unvaccinated, specifically across seven types of cancer. Fargo’s Utility Price Shock: The Public Service Commission has approved a 10.6% interim rate increase for Xcel Energy natural gas customers. Steve challenges the official 2.7% inflation narrative, noting that for families in Fargo and Grand Forks, the "real world" cost of living is rising much faster. Rachel Paulos vs. Minneapolis: Senior Litigation Attorney Rachel Paulos joins the show to discuss the Upper Midwest Law Center's lawsuit against Mayor Jacob Frey. The suit aims to force the city to hire at least 100 more police officers to comply with the city charter and protect a business climate that is currently "fleeing" downtown. The 200,000 Trucker Dilemma: Steve breaks down a new Trump administration rule that could bar asylum seekers and DACA participants from holding commercial licenses. He explores the tension between roadway safety and the potential for a massive freighter slowdown that could spike grocery prices. The Oscars' Cultural "Vibe Shift": Steve highlights two moments from the Academy Awards suggesting a pivot toward traditional values: Nicole Kidman mentioning her Sunday church routine and Best Actress winner Jessie Buckley dedicating her Oscar to the "beautiful chaos of a mother's heart". Justice for Angela Lipps:…