uest host Andrew Sletten sits in for Steve Hallstrom on this post-Christmas edition of The Steve Hallstrom Show, unpacking major local and national stories that may have flown under the radar during the holidays. From U.S. military action overseas to declining crime statistics in Fargo—and a deeper debate over whether those numbers tell the whole story—the show quickly turns into a candid examination of downtown safety, economic incentives, and the long-term consequences of government-driven development. In the second half, former Fargo City Commissioner Tony Gehrig joins the program for an in-depth conversation on tax incentives, housing affordability, and why Fargo’s downtown may be experiencing the painful correction of a long-building bubble. ⏱️ Key Moments & Highlights 00:00 – Holiday Open & Guest Host IntroductionAndrew Sletton fills in for Steve Hallstrom, reflecting on the post-Christmas slowdown and setting the tone for an open-line, community-focused show. 05:30 – Christmas Day Military Action in NigeriaDiscussion of President Trump’s Christmas Day authorization of strikes against ISIS camps in Nigeria, framed around global Christian persecution and foreign policy signaling. 13:40 – Fargo Crime Report BreakdownAndrew reviews a newly released Fargo Police Department report showing: 10% drop in serious crime 44% drop in shootings 29% decline in burglaries 18:50 – “Perception vs. Reality” in Public SafetyA critical look at whether year-to-year crime reductions tell the full story, raising the question: How does today compare to Fargo 10 years ago? 24:30 – Long-Term Crime Trends RevealedReference to North Dakota Attorney General data showing a 42% increase in Fargo’s crime rate from 2014–2024, complicating the city’s optimistic messaging. 34:00 – Downtown Fargo & Business ClosuresAndrew details a wave of downtown restaurant and retail closures, including well-known establishments, and connects them to safety concerns, rent increases, and changing foot traffic. 38:45 – Listener Call-In: “We Won’t Go Downtown at Night”A Fargo resident shares firsthand experiences delivering food downtown, explaining why safety concerns have changed personal behavior over the last decade. 44:34 – Tony Gehrig Joins the ShowFormer Fargo City Commissioner Tony Gehrig enters the conversation to discuss tax incentives, school board resistance, and the changing political appetite for subsidies. 48:30 – Who Really Pays for Incentives?Tony explains why school districts shoulder the largest financial burden of tax incentives—and why new state limits on property tax increases are forcing hard “no” votes. 55:00 – The Downtown Housing Bubble ExplainedA deep dive into how decades of incentives inflated downtown land values,…

In this holiday-edition episode, guest host Tim Flakoll sits down with key North Dakota leaders and analysts to discuss the major legislative and economic shifts shaping the region. From the intricacies of property tax reform and the future of the state’s higher education funding to the high-stakes technological evolution of the oil industry, this episode provides a deep dive into the forces driving North Dakota’s prosperity. Plus, a look at the "A-List" of the biggest stories from 2025 and a provocative conversation on structural changes proposed for Fargo's city government. Key Moments The Property Tax Revolution Representative Mike Nathie explains the "linchpin" of the state's landmark property tax relief program is the 3% cap on political subdivision budget growth. He notes that the program adds an additional $1,100 on top of existing relief, totaling up to $1,600 for primary residences. Homeowners are reminded they must take 90 seconds to sign up every year because the state cannot track residency changes automatically. Higher Education & Online Learning Representative Nathie discusses the work of a new higher education funding committee evaluating enrollment trends and revenue. A major point of debate is whether out-of-state students taking online courses should be treated the same as "butts in seats," especially if they do not remain in the North Dakota workforce. Online courses currently generate approximately $31 million for the state’s 11 institutions. Bakken 2.0: Cracking the Code North Dakota Petroleum Council President Ron Ness explains that the industry currently leaves 85 out of every 100 barrels of oil in the ground. "Bakken 2.0" focuses on using new technology to extract an additional 10% to 15% of that oil, which could add 40 years of productivity to the state. Ness emphasizes that over half of North Dakota's revenue is derived from the oil industry, funding everything from schools to property tax buy-downs. A Ward System for Fargo? Former City Commissioner Tony Gehrig discusses a petition to move Fargo to a ward or council system where each part of town has its own representative. Gehrig argues that Fargo is the largest city in the country still using an "at-large" style of government and that different neighborhoods have vastly different needs. The proposed system would create six wards of roughly 22,000 people each. Fargo’s Debt & Spending Audit Tony Gehrig highlights that the city of Fargo is currently over $1 billion in debt. He criticizes "wasteful" spending on…

In this high-stakes Friday edition of the Steve Hallstrom Show, we dive into the shifting political winds of 2026 and beyond. From Alex Blas throwing his hat back into the ring for North Dakota’s lone congressional seat to the growing speculation surrounding JD Vance’s path to 2028, the battle lines are being drawn. Steve breaks down the "Trump Inflation Index"—a grassroots idea for measuring the real cost of living—and takes a hard look at whether any Republican can actually unseat Tim Walz in Minnesota. Plus, we celebrate a victory for federal justice in Milwaukee and discuss the "fraud tourism" investigation currently rocking the Gopher State. Key Moments Alex Blas Runs Again Candidate Alex Blas joins the show to discuss his 2026 bid for Congress. He reflects on his previous primary run, the need for stronger leadership in Washington, and why he believes North Dakota needs a representative with his unique overseas and federal experience to challenge incumbent Julie Fedorchuk. The Trump Inflation Index Inspired by a listener, Steve pitches a new idea: the "Trump Index." Instead of convoluted government CPI numbers, the President should track a "basket of goodies"—the 50 most common household items—to show Americans exactly how prices are moving at the local Walmart. Justice in Milwaukee Steve cheers a jury’s decision to find Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan guilty of a felony for obstructing federal ICE agents. The discussion highlights the consequences for "activist judges" who attempt to circumvent law enforcement. Is Tim Walz Beatable? The phone lines light up as listeners debate the 2026 Minnesota gubernatorial race. While many agree Walz has been a "disaster," the consensus suggests it will take a perfectly run campaign and a candidate like Kendall Qualls or Michelle Tafoya to capture the imagination of voters and overcome election concerns. The 2028 GOP Horizon The Republican primary for 2028 may have effectively ended at the Turning Point USA conference. Steve discusses Erika Kirk’s powerful endorsement of JD Vance and why her voice carries more weight in the conservative movement right now than almost anyone else. Bison Football & The Portal Good news for NDSU fans: Steve shares reports that several key Bison players are choosing to stay in Fargo for another year rather than jumping into the transfer portal for NIL money.

It’s a high-wind, high-stakes Thursday on the Steve Hallstrom Show. As a massive winter storm shutters I-29 and shakes the studio walls with 60 MPH gusts, Steve navigates a whirlwind of news—from the latest federal fraud probes in St. Paul to a surprise inflation report that has Wall Street surging. Steve is joined by Dr. Scott Bowyer, Dean of the Business School at the University of Wyoming, for a candid breakdown of the "K-shaped" economy and whether the Trump administration’s tariffs are actually to blame for your grocery bill. Plus, a deep dive into the human side of the deportation debate and a critique of the President’s latest address to the nation. Key Moments The Blizzard of ’25: Steve and meteorologist Dean detail the dangerous conditions across the Red River Valley, including wind chills plunging to 40 below and widespread road closures on both the North Dakota and Minnesota sides of the border. Inflation Shocker: A breakdown of the new Consumer Price Index numbers showing inflation slowing to 2.7%. Steve and Dr. Scott Bowyer discuss whether this is a data anomaly from the government shutdown or a green light for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates in January. Deportation Dilemma: Steve examines the local story of Jose Cadena Velasquez. The discussion sparks a flood of listener calls and texts debating whether the law should be absolute or if there is room for exceptions for contributing members of the community. Critiquing the President: Steve reviews President Trump’s 18-minute prime-time speech. While praising the content, Steve suggests a strategic shift: focusing more on the "kitchen table" struggles of American families and less on political "mess-fixing." The "Warrior Dividend": A look at the President’s plan to send $1,776 checks to 1.4 million service members. Steve offers a bold, potentially unpopular take on whether these one-time checks are a helpful "pick-me-up" or a "gimmick" that ignores the $38 trillion national debt. Fraud in Minnesota: Staggering news from U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson, who claims more than half of the $18 billion spent on 14 social service programs since 2018 is tied to fraud. Steve reacts to Governor Walz’s latest calls for Republicans to turn over whistleblower tips.

Steve Hallstrom navigates a "goofy" Wednesday edition of the show, diving deep into the political and economic shifts defining the end of 2025. From local controversies regarding double-digit raises for public officials to the national firestorm surrounding Governor Tim Walz and the Department of Education, Steve pulls no punches. The episode features a comprehensive investment outlook with financial expert Brian Cronk, a fiery debate with Jay Thomas over tax abatements and tribal IDs, and a critical analysis of whether President Trump is "losing his touch" as he prepares for a rare prime-time address to the nation. Key Moments The Walz Resignation Call: Steve breaks down the shocking letter from U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon formally calling for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to resign, citing a "careless lack of oversight" that has allegedly turned the state into a hub for money laundering and welfare fraud. 2026 Investment Outlook: Managing Partner Brian Cronk joins the show to discuss why he believes we are in the "early innings" of a massive bull market driven by AI productivity. They explore the potential for a "shot out of a cannon" start to the new year as taxpayers realize the benefits of retroactive tax cuts on overtime and tips. Clay County Pay Raises: A look at the controversial 14% pay raise approved for Clay County Sheriff Mark Empting. Steve and Jay Thomas clash over whether such significant public sector raises are appropriate at a time when property taxes are "pricing people out of their homes." The "Orchestrated" Minnesota Poll: Steve revisits his skepticism regarding a recent poll suggesting widespread support for an assault weapons ban in rural Minnesota. He exposes flaws in the methodology, including leading questions and the fact that respondents were paid to participate. The Trump Presidency Under Fire: A response to Peggy Noonan’s Wall Street Journal column claiming Trump is losing his touch. Steve argues that while the "sausage making" of policy is messy, the president's base remains firm, even as he faces criticism for his disciplinary style and recent rhetoric. Tribal ID Controversy: Jay Thomas weighs in on the story of a Native American couple refused a liquor purchase because they used a tribal ID, questioning why the transaction was being recorded on a phone and reminding listeners of the long-standing North Dakota statutes.

Host Steve Hallstrom dives into a packed Tuesday edition, blending high-stakes investigative journalism with local community spotlights and a "nerdy" deep dive into the future of investing. The show opens with a sobering look at drug-related death trends in Cass County before shifting gears to explore a whistleblower's shocking account of millions in cash allegedly flowing through the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Steve also puts Google’s Gemini AI to the test, uncovering a potential stock market opportunity that sounds almost too good to be true. Whether it's the latest in North Dakota real estate or a heartwarming tribute from the Denver Broncos to a local fan, this episode covers the landscape of the Midwest and beyond. Key Moments The TSA Whistleblower: Liz Collin from Alpha News joins the show to discuss a staggering report of suitcases filled with millions of dollars in cash being carried through MSP Airport. Steve and Liz connect the dots between Minnesota’s fraud scandals and the potential overseas destination of these untraceable funds. AI vs. Wall Street: Steve plays "Gordon Gekko" for a day, walking listeners through an experiment using AI tools to research Broadcom and other tech giants. He breaks down support levels and price targets, questioning if AI is the ultimate shortcut for the modern retail investor. Building the Region: Lucas Paper, COO of Grow Investment Group, stops by the studio to discuss the unique "Steady Eddy" nature of the Fargo-Moorhead real estate market and why he remains bullish on local development despite national economic shifts. A Broncos Tribute: A touching story about Cully Durand, a young Moorhead sports fan who was recently honored at his funeral by the Denver Broncos. Steve shares the details of the team's floral tribute and their heartfelt message to their "biggest supporter." Poll Skepticism: Steve takes a critical look at a new poll regarding semi-automatic rifle bans in Minnesota, questioning the methodology and the timing of the release alongside Governor Tim Walz’s recent executive actions. Economic Shift: A breakdown of recent labor statistics showing a significant rise in private-sector jobs paired with a sharp decline in government positions—a trend Steve describes as a "step in the right direction."

Host Steve Hallstrom covers a range of local and national stories, discussing everything from North Dakota politics to controversial national news. Key Moments: Horace is Exploding: New Census Bureau data shows the city of Horace's population is nearing 8,500, more than double its 2020 count, prompting local businesses like Gate City Bank to expand. Weather and Daylight Update: Fargo is experiencing a cold December, but good news—the sun is starting to set later, gaining an extra minute of daylight tomorrow. Trump Tariffs Hit $200 Billion: Tariffs imposed by the Trump administration since the start of 2025 have hit $200 billion, with the Supreme Court currently reviewing their legality. Additionally, President Trump signed an executive order designating illicit fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction. Interview with ND Governor Kelly Armstrong: Governor Armstrong reflects on his first year in office (sworn in one year ago, December 15, 2024), highlighting three key accomplishments: the Bakken West to East pipeline, removing cell phones from K-12 schools, and property tax relief, which has reduced property taxes to zero for an estimated 30% of North Dakota households. A Referee's "Glorious" Moment: The host plays audio of referee Tim Rich's impactful pre-coin toss remarks at the Army-Navy football game, praising his respect for President Trump and the service members. Minnesota Governor Straw Poll Surprise: In a straw poll at the Minnesota Republican State Central Committee Convention, Kendall Qualls unexpectedly came in first for governor, ahead of Lisa Demuth and Mike Lindell. Radio Lineup Change: Host Scott Hannon joins the program to discuss the upcoming shift in the station's lineup, which will feature more local content with the Steve Hallstrom Show moving to 9-11 a.m. and The What's On Your Mind Show moving to 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Charlie Kirk Assassination Analysis: Legal analyst John Gordon joins the show to share his suspicion that the accused killer in the Charlie Kirk assassination may be a "patsy," citing conflicting information about the type of rifle used and the difficulty of the shot, as well as a memo Charlie Kirk wrote shortly before his death regarding a financial audit of Turning Point USA. The host and a caller later critique Gordon's segment for potential factual errors about the weapon and the shot's difficulty.

Join the Steve Hallstrom Show for a rapid-fire rundown of the day's top stories. The show kicks off with a discussion about the bitter cold weather, driving conditions, and a look at the almanac, including the earliest sunset times of the year. The conversation quickly shifts to major news headlines: the shocking arrest of a 13-year-old Moorhead student for possessing a large quantity of pills suspected to contain fentanyl, a proposed Fargo housing complex pulling its application after being denied tax breaks, and Aldevron announcing a second round of significant employee layoffs. The host also touches on the political front, discussing President Trump overturning a Biden-era land management plan impacting North Dakota's energy development. Michelle Comer of High Road Partners joins the show to offer expert HR advice on job postings, hiring processes, and navigating EEO guidelines, noting that employers generally don't have to post every job. Later, the host tackles a CNBC article proclaiming single-income households a "bygone era" and asks listeners for their personal stories and perspective on this evolving American dream. Finally, there's a quick note on Minnesota Governor Tim Walls hiring a new "Director of Integrity" and a controversial comment made by a pro football player about a childhood game. Key Moments 13-Year-Old Arrested with Fentanyl Pills: A 13-year-old student at Horizon Middle School in Moorhead was arrested for first-degree possession of a controlled substance after being found with 1,500 pills, valued at over $35,000, that authorities believe contain fentanyl. The host expresses outrage and concern about who supplied the child. Fargo Development Canceled After Tax Break Denial: The Annex Group rescinded its application for a $94 million apartment complex in downtown Fargo after the Fargo Public School Board and Cass County Commission voted against a 15-year tax abatement, suggesting that pushback against these deals can, in fact, stop projects. Aldevron Layoffs and the Tightening Job Market: Fargo-based pharmaceutical company Aldevron announced an additional 7% workforce reduction, following a 5% cut earlier in the year, totaling 120 employees. The host uses this as an example of a broader 2025 trend where companies are getting "tough on your employee count" due to inflation and automation. HR Rules on Job Postings: HR expert Michelle Comer clarifies that, generally, employers are not required to post a job opening, with exceptions for things like union contracts or federal contractor status, emphasizing the importance of company culture and objective hiring practices.…

Host Steve Hallstrom dives into a packed show from Watford City, North Dakota, reflecting on the past year and tackling a jammed news cycle. Key Moments: Fargo's Needle Distribution Program: Fargo City Commissioner Michelle Turnberg is demanding answers about a city program that has distributed almost a million needles to residents over the past two years, questioning the funding and what's being done with the sheer volume of needles. North Dakota SNAP Changes: North Dakota received federal approval to restrict SNAP benefits (food stamps) from being used to buy candy, pop, and other junk foods. Hallstrom praises the Trump administration for "restoring order" and ensuring taxpayer money is used for "real food." Mike Lindell Enters Minnesota Governor Race: MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell has officially launched his campaign for Minnesota governor, promising to "fix the state's problems, run the government like a business, and not back down from his election fraud theories." He joins a crowded field of GOP candidates. Packet Digital Success Story: Hallstrom interviews Terry Zimmerman, CEO of Fargo-based Packet Digital, a fast-growing company that builds batteries and power systems for autonomous systems like drones and satellites. The company recently secured a significant, up to $50 million, procurement award from the Department of War for American-made batteries. The Minnesota Somali Fraud Saga Continues: A former TSA agent at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport alleged that she routinely saw Somali men traveling in pairs with suitcases filled with millions of dollars in cash, suggesting this was a major source of money laundering that she believes went to fund foreign terrorism, specifically Al-Shabaab. GOP Governor Candidate Forum Breakdown: Hallstrom gives high points from the first GOP Governor's Candidate Forum in Minnesota, noting that nearly all candidates are seeking President Trump's endorsement, and some took issue with Trump's past comments on the Somali community. A Personal Reflection: The host shares a personal reflection on the unexpected death of a dear college friend at age 60, encouraging listeners to reach out to their loved ones and honor their friendships before it's too late.

Host Steve Hallstrom and producer Addison Ldiscuss a packed news day on December 10, 2025. The Federal Reserve Board's decision to lower interest rates by a quarter percent is a central topic, with analysis on its impact on small businesses and the overall economy. The show features a deep dive into local news, including the Fargo School Board's defeat of a tax incentive for a proposed downtown apartment complex. Hallstrom and guest J. Thomas later debate the implications of such tax breaks and city spending. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to an interview with Dustin Mitzel, CEO of Happy Harry's, who shares the infuriating and threatening experience of dealing with shoplifters who stole nearly $3,000 worth of high-end tequila from his store. He discusses the measures they are taking to combat organized retail crime and protect their employees. Other key stories include: The Trump administration's removal of nearly 10,000 commercial truck drivers from US roads for failing to speak English proficiently. News from PepsiCo about eliminating hundreds of products, including some snack chips varieties. A North Dakota farmer facing a massive fine for violating state and federal seed laws. The first woman, Justice Lisa Fair McEvers, appointed as North Dakota's Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. A moving "Warm Your Heart Wednesday" feature honoring Dana Fitterer of Bismarck. An update on a World War II soldier from North Dakota, Staff Sergeant Irvin Ellingson, who was finally identified after 80 years. Key Moments: Federal Reserve Rate Cut: Discussion on the quarter-point interest rate reduction and its significance for small businesses and consumer confidence. Shoplifting at Happy Harry's: CEO Dustin Mitzel recounts the brazen theft of high-end tequila and the challenges of protecting employees and inventory, highlighting the national issue of retail crime. Fargo Tax Break Showdown: The Fargo School Board narrowly votes down a tax abatement for a downtown development, sparking a larger debate about city spending and the new state-imposed property tax cap. Trucker English Proficiency: The removal of thousands of commercial drivers for not meeting English language requirements, and the necessity of the law for road safety. Seed Law Violation Fine: The unexpected story of a North Dakota farmer hit with a $60,000 penalty for violating state and federal seed laws, marking the largest penalty of its kind in the state. Would you like to hear more about the impact of the interest rate cut on…