Steve Hallstrom returns to the Fargo studio with an urgent plea for resilience as tensions boil over in Minneapolis. Following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretty by federal agents, Steve explores why "backing off" is not an option for law enforcement and addresses the stunning departure of Chris Maddell from the Minnesota GOP governor’s race. The episode features an exclusive interview with U.S. Senate candidate Michelle Tafoya, who tackles the tough questions on her "pro-choice" stance and her vision for Minnesota’s future. Plus, Steve breaks down the latest on North Dakota’s universal school lunch debate and debuts a new segment: "Truth or Trash." Key Moments Holding the Line in Minneapolis: Steve implores listeners to support federal agents finishing their mission in Minnesota despite increasing political pressure. He argues that while the cleanup is "messy," showing weakness now will only embolden those who wish to disrupt law and order. Michelle Tafoya on the Record: Republican Senate hopeful Michelle Tafoya joins the show to discuss her official campaign launch. She clarifies her stance on the life issue, citing her personal journey with adoption, and outlines her plan to tackle the "crisis of leadership" and systemic fraud overseen by Governor Tim Walz. The GOP Stunner: Chris Maddell drops out of the Minnesota governor’s race, citing an inability to support "stated retribution" against citizens. Steve evaluates the fallout and notes that President Trump is dispatching Tom Homan to the Twin Cities to oversee the escalating situation. Truth or Trash: Steve uses Jack Nicholson and Oscar the Grouch soundbites to evaluate the week's biggest claims, including Amy Klobuchar’s "hedging" on her Senate seat while running for Governor and the reality of the U.S. "reprivatizing" the economy. The Fargo Dome Vision: Dave Supas, President of the Fargo Dome Authority, stops by to reveal a $200 million plan for the new convention center. The vision includes a connected hotel, an indoor tailgating space for NDSU games, and a new "entertainment district" modeled after Dinkytown. School Lunch Legislative Update: Steve critiques the North Dakota House for passing a universal free food bill while shooting down a targeted measure that would have limited benefits to families making $100,000 or less. Best Thing I Heard All Day: Steve highlights a viral clip regarding the arrest of an illegal immigrant in Georgia for a brutal home invasion and rape, contrasting the lack of media coverage for victims with the hysteria over…

Back in the Fargo studio after a trip to the Bakken, Steve Hallstrom tackles a whirlwind Friday news cycle. The big story of the day comes from Bismarck, where the North Dakota Senate narrowy voted down a controversial universal free school meal bill, setting the stage for a high-stakes ballot measure. Steve also dives into the "self-deportation" trend as Kristi Noem ramps up exit incentives, and explores the political landscape in Minnesota as Senator Amy Klobuchar prepares a run for Governor. Plus, a first-ever game of "Truth or Trash" and a look at why thousands of Minnesota businesses are shutting their doors today in protest. Key Moments The School Lunch Stalemate: Steve discusses the breaking news that the North Dakota Senate killed a bill for universal free school meals by just two votes. He joins Scott Hennen to debate why Republicans are pushing back against "socialist madness" and the role of out-of-state money in the upcoming ballot initiative. Self-Deportation Incentives: Homeland Security Chief Kristi Noem increases the voluntary deportation incentive to $2,600. Steve notes that 2.2 million illegal immigrants have already self-deported since early 2025 as federal enforcement intensifies. Minnesota’s Choice: With Michelle Tafoya officially entering the U.S. Senate race, Steve weighs her "common sense" appeal against the "tough-talking" Royce White. Meanwhile, Amy Klobuchar files paperwork to run for Minnesota Governor, a move the GOP calls "hedging and waffling." Economic "Truth or Trash": Steve debuts a new segment, using Jack Nicholson and Oscar the Grouch soundbites to evaluate whether recent headlines—from surging 4.4% GDP growth to "reprivatizing" the economy—are fact or fiction. NDSU’s Next Chapter: Former State Representative Rick Berg is appointed interim president of North Dakota State University following David Cook’s departure for Iowa State. State Revenue Realities: Joe Morissette, Director of the ND Office of Management and Budget, discusses the state’s 9.5% growth in "net position" and the continued "rock star" performance of the Legacy Fund, even as oil rig activity slows. Best Thing I Heard All Day: Steve highlights Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s "Davos smackdown" of California Governor Gavin Newsom, where Bessent torched Newsom’s economic record and association with Alex Soros. On the Farm: Ag Director Bridgette Readel joins to talk about the dangers of the New World screwworm, the return of whole milk to schools, and why tractor purchases have plummeted 43% year-over-year.

rsthand look at the shifting economic tides in North Dakota’s oil country. As major players like Continental Resources halt drilling operations, Steve sits down with state leaders to discuss what slowing revenues mean for the state's record-breaking equity position and the "rock star" Legacy Fund. The episode also dives into a heated legislative battle over universal school meals, a massive planned business strike in Minnesota, and the upcoming Republican primary showdown between Michelle Tafoya and Royce White. Key Moments Bakken Slowdown: Steve reports from a quiet Watford City, noting a visible decrease in activity following Harold Hamm’s decision to shut down drilling rigs due to disappearing profit margins. North Dakota’s "Net Position": Joe Morissette, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, breaks down the state’s 2025 financial report, revealing a 9.5% growth in "net position"—essentially the citizens' equity in their state government. The Legacy Fund "Rock Star": Discussion highlights the staggering growth of the Legacy Fund, which rose from approximately $10.8 billion to over $13 billion in a single fiscal year, driven by investment returns and oil tax allocations. The School Lunch Debate: Steve critiques proposals for universal free breakfast and lunch in North Dakota, arguing that taxpayer money shouldn't be used to feed children from wealthy families when a "humane society" already covers those in need. A Middle-Ground Meal Plan: State Representative Ty Dressler introduces a competing bill that would raise the free-meal eligibility limit to 300% of the federal poverty line (approx. $100,000 income) rather than making it universal for all. Addressing the Doctor Shortage: Dr. Bob Mayo of NDSU’s Challey Institute warns that North Dakota faces a deficit of up to 500 doctors by 2040 and suggests the state must fund more rural residency slots to keep medical graduates from moving away. Minnesota Business Strike: Steve previews a planned shutdown by thousands of Minnesota business owners protesting ICE activity, noting that for some struggling owners, the symbolic closure could mean a permanent loss of their business. Senate Choice—Tafoya vs. White: Steve weighs the strengths and weaknesses of GOP Senate hopefuls Michelle Tafoya and Royce White, specifically addressing how Tafoya's pro-choice stance may play with state delegates. Best Thing I Heard All Day: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent "chooses violence" in Davos, delivering a blistering critique of California Governor Gavin Newsom’s economic record and his association with Alex Soros.

A massive news cycle brings major developments to the Red River Valley and beyond. Steve Hallstrom breaks down the blockbuster news of Michelle Tafoya’s run for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota and the potential for a "return to normalcy" in the state. We also head to the North Dakota State Capitol for a live broadcast of Governor Kelly Armstrong’s State of the State address, focusing on a bold new plan for rural healthcare transformation. From the "virtue signaling" signs at local coffee shops to the latest updates on the Greenland standoff, Steve covers the friction between common sense and political chaos. Key Moments Michelle Tafoya Enters the Ring: Steve confirms that former NFL sideline reporter Michelle Tafoya has filed paperwork to run for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota. In an exclusive interview, Tafoya discusses her desire to tackle the "crisis of leadership" and restore public safety and academic excellence to the state. North Dakota State of the State: Governor Kelly Armstrong delivers a concise address to a special session of the legislature, outlining a $199 million federal investment in the Rural Health Transformation Program. He highlights that 75% of North Dakota’s rural counties face primary care shortages and pledges to prioritize wellness over building new infrastructure. Greenland Standoff Cools: After a tense period of "tough talk," President Trump clarifies from Davos that the U.S. will not use military force to acquire Greenland. Steve notes that the stock market immediately bounced back following the announcement that a hostile takeover was off the table. Atomic Coffee Virtue Signaling: A downtown Fargo coffee shop makes headlines after posting signs in English and Spanish banning ICE agents from the premises. Steve questions the business logic of banning law enforcement and labels the move a "Nazi Germany" comparison gone too far. Targeting the "Idiot" Protesters: Steve and Homeland Security Chief Kristi Noem discuss the fallout from the disruption of a St. Paul church service. Noem promises imminent arrests for those who violated the FACE Act by intimidating parishioners and interrupting the worship service. 401k for a Home Down Payment: Steve explores a new Trump administration proposal that would allow Americans to use 401k funds for home down payments without the standard 10% early withdrawal penalty. The "Fraud" Strike: Steve exposes a social media push by the Twin Cities Democratic Socialists encouraging employees to lie to their bosses and take "mental health days" to participate in…

Exactly one year since Donald Trump’s second inauguration, Steve Hallstrom reflects on the shifting tides in Washington and across the globe. The show dives deep into the escalating tensions over Greenland, exploring why this Arctic territory has become a "strategic centerpiece" for U.S. national security. Steve is joined by international relations expert Michael Letts to discuss the history of U.S. interest in the island and the potential for a modern-day takeover. Plus, we take your calls on the greatest accomplishments of the administration's first year back in office—from border security to economic shifts—and discuss the recent shutdown of drilling rigs in the Bakken. Key Moments Inauguration Anniversary: Steve looks back on the "feeling of relief" from January 20, 2025, and evaluates whether the administration has successfully returned "adult presence" to the room after moving away from climate and gender identity focused policies. The Battle for Greenland: Steve breaks down the president’s threat of sweeping tariffs on European allies to pressure a sale of Greenland. He questions the ethics of potential military intervention while highlighting the island's vast reserves of lithium and uranium. Expert Insight on Arctic Security: Michael Letts joins the program to explain why Greenland is the "first line of defense" against Russian and Chinese influence, noting that interest in the territory dates back to the Truman administration. Bakken Rig Shutdown: Continental Resources founder Harold Hamm announces the company is pulling its drilling rigs out of North Dakota’s Bakken formation due to disappearing profit margins—a move that could cost the state hundreds of millions in economic activity. Minneapolis "Common Sense": In a rare moment of praise, Steve credits Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for urging protesters to remain peaceful to avoid an invocation of the Insurrection Act, though Steve disputes Frey's claim that past protests have been entirely non-violent. Best Thing I Heard All Day: Steve plays the rousing reaction to President Trump and his family at the National Championship game in Miami, arguing that the cheers prove the president remains overwhelmingly popular despite "legacy media" narratives. Solving Tech Headaches: SolveCXO founder Chris Buckingham highlights the "hidden costs" of bad tech decisions, such as overlapping software licenses and lost productivity, and how business owners can turn their vision into action.

On a frigid Monday, Steve Hallstrom breaks down a weekend of high-intensity news, starting with the shocking disruption of Sunday church services in St. Paul by activists protesting local ICE leadership. Steve also kicks off a detailed exploration of the proposed Fargo Convention Center sites, featuring an interview with Mike Allmendinger on the potential for a downtown revival. From the assassination of Charlie Kirk to the "Martyrdom" of conservative values, this episode tackles the deepening cultural and political divides in America. Key Moments Storming the Sanctuary: Steve discusses the "desecration" of a St. Paul church where protesters interrupted a service to target a pastor who also serves as an acting field office director for ICE. Steve questions the morality of bringing political "holy wars" into houses of worship. Downtown Convention Vision: Mike Allmendinger, President of Kilbourn Group, joins the show to discuss the proposal to repurpose the Fargo Civic Center into a modern convention hub. He addresses concerns about parking, infrastructure, and how the project could help solve downtown's challenges. The Martyrdom of Charlie Kirk: Author Drew Thomas Allen joins the program to discuss his new book, exploring how the assassination of Charlie Kirk reflects an increasing intolerance toward faith and truth in public discourse. ICE Agents Speak Out: In "Best Thing I Heard All Weekend," Steve plays a clip of an ICE agent in Monticello exposing the irony of protesters honking and impeding an investigation into a child sex offender. Targeting Target: Steve critiques a group of local faith leaders in Moorhead who delivered a letter to Target management demanding the store refuse entry to ICE officers without a judicial warrant. National Guard Confusion: A caller alerts Steve to reports that Governor Tim Walz may be equipping the Minnesota National Guard with high-visibility vests to distinguish them from federal agents during potential deployments.

In a packed Friday edition, Steve Hallstrom navigates the icy conditions gripping the region while diving into the heavy-hitting news of the day. From federal arrests in Minneapolis to a heated debate over the impact of ICE in rural Minnesota, this episode explores the friction between local leadership and federal law enforcement. Steve also breaks down a major shift in the healthcare landscape, the latest news on falling overdose deaths, and checks the pulse of the local ag community as farmers face a "wash" in the corn markets. Plus, a look at the push for free school lunches in North Dakota and a spirited conversation with State Representative Jeff Backer. Key Moments Near-Blizzard Conditions: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki joins the show to warn travelers about 50 mph winds and deteriorating visibility, specifically noting closures on Highway 75 and travel advisories across the 94 corridor. The "Great Healthcare Plan": Steve discusses President Trump’s newly unveiled healthcare pitch, which aims to bypass insurance companies and send federal subsidies directly to individuals to cover their costs. ICE and the Rural Divide: Steve addresses comments from State Senator Rob Kupec regarding "fear" in rural communities due to ICE activity. Steve challenges the narrative, citing a 99.997% success rate in recent arrests and arguing for law and order over emotional policy. Minnesota Impeachment Talk: State Representative Jeff Backer joins the program to discuss the drafting of articles of impeachment against Governor Tim Walz, citing a lack of accountability and poor stewardship of state resources. The Great Lunch Debate: Steve opens the phone lines to discuss a potential North Dakota ballot initiative for universal free school meals, questioning whether a $70 million program is the best use of taxpayer money when families in need are already covered. Ag Market Shakeup: Ag Director Bridget Riedel stops by to digest the latest WASDE report, explaining why a surprise surplus in corn bushels is creating a "wash" for farmers despite upcoming bridge payments. Best Thing I Heard All Day: Steve highlights Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd for his blunt take on the difference between "undocumented" and "illegal" following a series of arrests in Florida.

In a high-energy broadcast from the Drive with Vision Studio, Steve Hallstrom breaks down a Thursday morning packed with political firestorms and economic contradictions. The episode centers on the escalating tension in Minnesota as federal immigration enforcement clashes with local leadership and "paid agitators" on the streets of Minneapolis. Steve questions the long-term sustainability of the current chaos and wonders aloud: "How does this end?" Beyond the headlines of the "Operation Metro Surge," the show dives into the pockets of the American consumer. From a surprising surge in the stock market to the bipartisan struggle with credit card debt, Steve explores why the "traders" are seeing a different reality than the families sitting at their kitchen tables. The episode also takes a critical look at a new push for universal free school meals in North Dakota, sparking a heated debate over government overreach, parental responsibility, and the true cost of "free." Key Moments The Insurrection Act Threat Steve discusses President Trump’s social media warning that he may invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota. With thousands of federal officers already on the ground, the show examines the "disgusting and intolerable" rhetoric coming from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey versus the "law and order" stance of the administration. Operation Metro Surge A deep dive into the numbers reveals that over 2,400 people have been arrested by immigration officials in the Twin Cities in just ten days. Steve highlights the growing violence at protests, including reports of fireworks and "vile" attacks on ICE officers. The 10% Credit Card Cap In a rare moment of agreement with a CNN statistical report, Steve looks at the massive popularity of Trump’s proposed cap on credit card interest rates. While he dislikes government meddling in the private sector, he acknowledges that debt is the one thing currently uniting Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. The "Free" Lunch Debate The phone lines light up over a North Dakota petition to provide free breakfast and lunch to all public school students, regardless of family income. Steve and his callers question why taxpayers should fund meals for wealthy families when safety nets for those in need already exist. Drill Baby, Drill Interior Department data shows a 55% increase in oil and gas drilling permits on public lands since last January. Steve argues this is the fundamental reason gas prices are flirting with the two-dollar mark, providing a much-needed win for the average driver.…

As the new morning time slot begins to feel like second nature, Steve Hallstrom takes listeners into the heart of the Fargo-Moorhead growth engine. The episode centers on two massive regional developments: the final stages of the multi-billion dollar Fargo Diversion project and the high-stakes selection process for a new Fargo Convention Center. Steve is joined by Mike Bollinger and Mark Bjornstad to discuss their bold "Brewhala" proposal, which aims to minimize taxpayer risk while transforming the area west of downtown. The show also pulls back the curtain on national headlines, analyzing a "mic drop" moment at the Supreme Court regarding the definition of sex in sports and breaking down a massive 5.4% GDP growth projection. From ICE arrests in Fargo to a lighthearted look at RFK Jr.’s favorite cabinet comedian, this episode balances deep economic analysis with the faith, family, and freedom principles that define the "Happy Warrior" spirit. Key Moments Fargo Convention Center Sites Revealed: Mike Bollinger (Cityscapes Development) and Mark Bjornstad (Drekker Brewing) break down their vision for a convention center at the Brewhala site, explaining a unique management model designed to protect the city from financial loss. The Diversion Price Tag: A look at the FM Area Diversion project as it enters its final year, now projected at a total cost of $3.2 billion with operations slated to begin for the 2027 spring flood season. Supreme Court Transgender Showdown: Steve analyzes Justice Samuel Alito’s questioning of a definition for "boy" and "girl" during oral arguments, highlighting the legal complexities of transgender participation in female sports. GDP Nerd-Out: A deep dive into the 5.4% fourth-quarter growth estimate, exploring how high GDP leads to a "local multiplier effect" and better public services without raising tax rates. ICE Active in Fargo: North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer confirms that federal immigration enforcement hasn't just been limited to the Twin Cities, but has resulted in multiple recent arrests in the Fargo area. The "Lie of Nice" vs. Truth: A discussion on the weaponization of empathy in political discourse, specifically regarding illegal immigration and justice. Real Estate Market Shift: A surprising report from Lennar shows new home prices in some sectors falling below 2018 levels, signaling a potential shift in the inflation narrative. Levity in the Cabinet: RFK Jr. shares a laugh on a recent podcast, naming Marco Rubio as the funniest member of the new administration with a quip about employment…

In a fast-paced Tuesday edition, Steve Hallstrom breaks down the tension simmering across the Upper Midwest as federal immigration enforcement expands from the Twin Cities into small-town Minnesota and even Fargo. With high-stakes legal battles brewing and local media focusing on "palpable fear," Steve challenges listeners to look at the "ugly side" of illegal immigration and the necessity of strong federal action to combat human trafficking and fraud. The show also dives into the "wonky" but critical world of economics, analyzing a massive 5.4% GDP growth projection and what it really means for your paycheck and job security. Later, North Dakota Congresswoman Julie Fedorchuk joins the program to provide a D.C. perspective on the criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, her new legislation to ban congressional stock trading, and the delicate balance of capping credit card interest rates. From Supreme Court showdowns to car loan sticker shock, this episode covers the principles of faith, family, and freedom that define the region. Key Moments ICE in Fargo and Beyond: Senator Kevin Cramer confirms that ICE has carried out multiple arrests in the Fargo area recently, as "Operation Metro Surge" continues to spark controversy and lawsuits from Minnesota officials. The "Fear" Narrative: Steve reacts to reports of immigrant families in Pelican Rapids keeping children home from school, questioning why those here legally should fear enforcement and emphasizing the removal of criminals. GDP Breakdown: A deep dive into the estimated 5.4% economic growth for the fourth quarter, explaining the "local multiplier effect" and how high GDP can improve public services without raising tax rates. Julie Fedorchuk In-Studio: The Congresswoman discusses the tragic shooting in Minneapolis, her support for an investigation into lethal force, and the importance of supporting federal agents facing constant harassment. Cleaning Up Capitol Hill: Fedorchuk breaks down her co-sponsored legislation to ban members of Congress from trading individual stocks to restore public trust and prevent leaders from "getting rich" off their positions. The Definition of "Sex": Analysis of the Supreme Court's showdown over transgender athletes, featuring a "mic drop" exchange between Justice Samuel Alito and an attorney who struggled to define the terms "boy" and "girl." Car Payment Sticker Shock: A look at the startling data from Edmunds showing that one in five new car buyers now faces a monthly payment of $1,000 or more. A "Wholesome" Viral Moment: Steve highlights a video of a passerby praying for a…