The Steve Hallstrom Show

The Flag - AM 1100 and FM 92.3

Join Steve Hallstrom as he tackles the issues that matter most to you. With razor-sharp wit and unwavering conviction, Steve cuts through the noise and provides you with honest, unfiltered commentary that speaks directly to the issues that affect our community. With interactive segments and lively call-ins, listeners will be front and center in the conversation. Steve keeps you informed, empowered, and inspired. Tune in weekdays to catch the wave of conservative thought and be part of a community that celebrates the timeless principles that make our country great.

  1. 2D AGO

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 701: The Bond Market Poll, Measure 3 Warfare, and the No-Debate Standoff

    Steve Hallstrom targets a massive Tuesday, May 19th edition, analyzing the underlying tremors of the U.S. economy and the high-stakes political maneuvers sweeping across North Dakota. Steve breaks down a historic spike in 30-year treasury yields, exposing how the bond market is issuing a brutal "report card" on federal inflation. The show hits the local ground to track the fast-approaching June and November ballot measures, welcoming North Dakota Secretary of State Michael Howe to decode Measure 1 and the heavily funded "Together for School Meals" initiative. Plus, an exclusive conversation with Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak on her piece-by-piece land swap legislation, her firm refusal to join primary debates, and why she believes the Iran War clock doesn't need a reset. Key Moments The Bond Market Report Card: Steve delivers a crucial reality check on the U.S. economy as the 30-year treasury yield hits its highest peak in nearly 19 years. He explains that global investors are rapidly dumping U.S. debt on fears that inflation is reigniting due to $110 Brent crude oil. Steve warns that the bond market acts as the ultimate poll on government finance, driving up borrowing costs and fixed mortgage rates during the peak spring home-buying season. Measure 3 Hits the November Ballot: Secretary of State Michael Howe joins the program to confirm that the universal free school meals petition successfully cleared 49,000 valid signatures, locking it down as a major constitutional question this November. Steve strongly rebukes the initiative, labeling it a massive, unnecessary waste of public funds that prioritizes wealthy families when lower-income children are already protected up to a $72,000 household threshold. Julie Fedorchak Defends "No-Debate" Standoff: North Dakota's lone Congresswoman, Julie Fedorchak, calls into the studio from Washington, D.C. Ahead of the June 9th primary against challenger Alex Balazs, Fedorchak strongly defends her choice to completely skip all campaign debates. Pointing to a complete endorsement from President Trump and 35 years of local grassroots work, Fedorchak asserts that her direct meetings and regular office hours make her fully accessible without entering a debate arena. The North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act: Congresswoman Fedorchak outlines a major piece of common-sense land management legislation moving to the House floor after passing committee unanimously. The bill establishes a strategic land swap framework, allowing the state to trade out a historical "patchwork" of section 16 and 36 school lands to consolidate tribal ownership for ventures like Standing Rock's…

    1h 16m
  2. 3D AGO

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 700: Faith on the Mall, Friction at City Hall, and the Fight Against Pay-and-Chase Fraud

    Steve Hallstrom hosts a dense Monday edition packed with major state legislative wrap-ups, massive federal crackdowns on government waste, and a deep philosophical debate over faith and language in the public square. Steve reacts to a leaked court file targeting a prominent local candidate, analyzes a historic nine-hour Christian rally on the National Mall, and welcomes real estate expert Suzanne Sennie to break down the shifting housing dynamics in Southern California. Plus, an inside look at a massive Medicaid fraud ring operating in Minneapolis and a check on $103 oil heading into Memorial Day. Key Moments Minnesota Session Wraps with a Gun Victory: Steve breaks down the frantic final moments of the 2026 Minnesota legislative session, which wrapped up at midnight. While lawmakers passed a series of infrastructure bills and fraud-related measures, Steve cheers the fact that a controversial firearms ban officially failed to make it through the split chambers before the deadline. The National Rededicate 250 Prayer Rally: Steve reflects on the "Rededicate 250" prayer vigil on the National Mall, calling out liberal media outlets for framing it as a "sinister" gathering of white Christian nationalists. Steve wears the term as a badge of honor, highlighting video messages of encouragement from high-ranking cabinet officials, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Court Files Upend Fargo Commission Race: A major "October Surprise" lands in the Fargo City Commission race after a local media report unearths sensitive court files from candidate Tony Gehrig's private custody dispute. Callers and texters fire back in a heated debate over whether text message vitriol in a private divorce should disqualify a proven fiscal hawk from serving his city. The Death of "Pay-and-Chase" Fraud: Steve highlights a crucial policy shift spearheaded by Vice President J.D. Vance and the newly formed anti-fraud task force. Moving away from the traditional, flawed "pay-and-chase" approach, Vance reports that federal agencies have already uncovered tens of billions in stolen taxpayer money, including a $22 million collection referral and the exposure of luxury car owners receiving food stamps. Suzanne Sennie on the California Housing Exodus: Suzanne Sennie, founder and CEO of Innovate Realty, joins the program from the West Coast. She details how extreme fire insurance barriers and high interest rates are forcing Gen Z buyers to seek creative co-signing arrangements, while a widespread cultural desire for political change is brewing ahead of the Los Angeles mayoral election.…

    1h 15m
  3. 6D AGO

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 699: The Fargo Mayor Financial Disclosures & The Commission Clash

    Steve Hallstrom breaks down a massive Friday edition packed with local political bombshells, changing trends in agriculture, and a deep look at the underbelly of the healthcare machine. Steve unpacks the newly released campaign finance reports in the Fargo mayoral race, revealing clear winners and losers in the fundraising game, and analyzes the standout moments from last night's high-stakes Fargo City Commission debate. The show also features Ag Director Bridget Riedel on a creative new credit trend for farmers, a look at a massive $177 million casino project in Moorhead, and a breakdown of why wholesale oil prices are clinging dangerously close to $105 a barrel. Key Moments Mayoral Fundraising Numbers Revealed: Steve dives into the first campaign finance reports for the Fargo mayoral race. Josh Beaucher leads the pack by raising more than all other candidates combined at $128,000, including a $10,000 donation from a D.C.-based political action committee. Michelle Turnberg sits in second at $44,000, fueled by a $25,000 contribution from Senator Kevin Cramer's Badlands PAC. City Commission Debate Fallout: Steve reviews last night's lively Fargo City Commission debate. He identifies Scott Brekke and Chad Peterson as the strongest fiscal hawks of the night, highlighting Brekke’s vow to instantly dismantle the city's needle exchange program. Steve critiques the more moderate and left-leaning candidates for a lack of urgency regarding Fargo's climbing debt and double-digit budget increases. Whole Life Insurance for Farm Expenses: Ag Director Bridget Riedel joins the show to discuss a growing trend out in farm country. She explains how farmers are utilizing properly structured whole life insurance policies to borrow against their own cash value for farm expenses, bypassing traditional banks to maintain total flexibility over their payback schedules. White Earth Nation Casino Impact Report: The White Earth Nation has released a massive financial impact report for its proposed casino and convention center near Moorhead. The $177 million project is projected to draw over a million visitors annually, creating 600 full-time jobs and generating a major economic footprint for Clay County. Healthcare Upcoding Exposed: Dr. Phil and Dr. Oz weigh in on the "dark underbelly" of the $4 trillion U.S. healthcare machine. They target administrative bloat and "upcoding," exposing how hospitals bundle simple data entry and clerical work into physician services, billing patients at world-class specialist rates for tasks a high school graduate could perform. Universal Free Meals Make the Ballot: A petition drive has successfully…

    1h 16m
  4. MAY 14

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 698: Xi’s Warning, The Fargo Parks Audit, and a COVID Whistleblower

    Steve Hallstrom hosts a sun-drenched Thursday, May 14th edition, reporting from what he calls "the nicest day of the spring." Steve breaks down the high-stakes summit between Presidents Trump and Xi in Beijing, where warnings over Taiwan have clouded hopes for a quick Iran peace deal. Closer to home, the show audits the $100 million Fargo Parks Sports Complex nearly two years after its controversial opening and dives into the latest "gross" harassment of a Minneapolis church. Plus, the "best thing I heard all day" features a CIA whistleblower unraveling a COVID origin cover-up. Key Moments Taiwan Conflict Warning: During their Beijing summit, President Xi Jinping issued an unusually harsh admonition to President Trump, warning that the U.S. and China could "clash" over Taiwan if the issue is not handled properly. This tension stands in sharp contrast to Trump’s praise for Xi, even as both leaders publicly agreed that Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon. Fargo Parks Sports Complex Update: Kelly Moore, director of the facility, joins the show to discuss the building’s 15-month full-operation status. Moore reports "skyrocketing" utilization of the free indoor walking track—averaging 280 people per day in 2026—and notes that open play sessions drew over 26,000 participants in 2025. CIA Whistleblower Testifies: In a Senate Homeland Security Committee meeting led by Rand Paul, career operations officer James Erdman testified that Dr. Anthony Fauci intentionally influenced intelligence to downplay the "lab incident" origin of COVID-19. Erdman alleged Fauci leveraged his position to consult with "conflicted" experts to scrub findings before they reached oversight committees. Fargo Tobacco & Vape Ban Stalls: The Fargo City Commission has tabled a proposed ban on flavored tobacco and vape products until after the June election. While Superintendent Corey Steiner warned that even elementary students are bringing vapes to school, retailers argue that 85% of their customers are over age 25. Steiner’s Leadership Example: Steve praises Superintendent Corey Steiner for a "leadership reflection" after Steiner requested a salary freeze for the second year of his new contract and voluntarily surrendered his unlimited PTO, capping it at 35 days to align with regular staff rules. Economic Reality Check: Despite moderately hot CPI data, retail sales jumped 4.9% year-over-year in April. Steve analyzes the "dichotomy" of record-low consumer sentiment paired with increased spending, noting that tax refunds and a surge in credit issuance are keeping the "spending industry" afloat. Church Harassment Escalates: Steve expresses…

    1h 16m
  5. MAY 13

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 697: The War’s $29 Billion Bill, The Ward System Standoff, and the AI Generational Split

    Steve Hallstrom hosts a sun-splashed Wednesday, May 13th edition, celebrating a perfect 80-degree day that offers a much-needed breakdown from the recent heavy winds. Steve breaks down the staggering $29 billion price tag of the war in Iran and hits the local political arena as Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney fiercely opposes a new "Ward System" petition. The show features an unexpected leadership masterclass from Fargo School Superintendent Corey Steiner, heavy pushback on President Trump’s gas tax holiday from Senator Kevin Cramer, and a fascinating generational debate with producer Addison on why young people are entirely "annoyed" by the artificial intelligence boom. Key Moments The War's Soaring Cost: Steve reports that the war in Iran has officially crossed a $29 billion price tag, according to acting Pentagon comptroller Jules Hurst. While Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously estimated $25 billion, internal assessments suggest total costs may already be approaching close to $50 billion as diplomatic efforts stall and Iran runs active combat drills. Meanwhile, President Trump is preparing to head to Beijing to discuss the conflict directly with President Xi Jinping. Mahoney Slams the Ward System: Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney has come out swinging against the "Fargo Wards for Equal Representation" petition. Mahoney warns that dividing the city into six neighborhood wards would cost between $250,000 and $500,000, ultimately resulting in "big government" and a weak mayor system. Superintendent Steiner's Unprecedented Moves: In the "Story of the Day," Steve praises Fargo Public Schools Superintendent Corey Steiner for an incredible display of leadership. Unanimously granted a new three-year contract, Steiner requested his salary be frozen for the second year due to district budget constraints and voluntarily surrendered his unlimited paid time off (PTO) to mirror regular employee standards. Cramer Breaks Ranks on Gas Tax: Appearing on the Jay Thomas Show, North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer expressed strong opposition to President Trump's plan to suspend the federal gas tax. Cramer argued that cutting the 18-cent tax would fail to lower prices at the pump, as refineries, truckers, and oil companies would simply absorb the difference into the supply-demand formula. The AI Generational Rebellion: In a fascinating "best thing I heard all day" segment, Steve highlights a University of Central Florida graduation ceremony where an administrator was heavily booed for praising artificial intelligence. Producer Addison details that for young people between 18 and 30, AI has become an "unavoidable, irritating" nuisance crammed into everyday apps,…

    1h 16m
  6. MAY 12

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 696: The Sworn-In Chief, Retaliation in the Gulf, and the Hunt for the Homemade Silencer

    Steve Hallstrom hosts a fast-paced Tuesday, May 12th edition, tracking major updates in local law enforcement and escalating international military maneuvers. Steve breaks down the Fargo City Commission’s unanimous vote to officially name a 25-year veteran as the city's new permanent Police Chief. Over in the Middle East, the show covers a major turning point as the United Arab Emirates enters the fray with direct military counter-strikes against a critical Iranian oil refinery. The show features an in-depth conversation with Republican congressional candidate Alex Balazs on the mechanics of a kinetic war and a wild local report about a Wahpeton man facing felony charges after building his own pistol suppressor. Key Moments Stefanowicz Unanimously Confirmed: The Fargo City Commission voted unanimously last night to appoint Interim Chief Travis Stefanowicz as the permanent Police Chief, wrapping up a nationwide search. Stefanowicz, a 25-year veteran of the department, will be sworn in on May 27th with an annual salary of $201,531. Mayor Tim Mahoney praised Stefanowicz for putting his heart into his strategies and seeking team input. UAE Launches Counter-Strikes: Steve reports that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially joined the kinetic action against Iran. After weathering over 2,800 retaliatory missile and drone bombardments from Iranian forces, the UAE launched a series of airstrikes successfully hitting the Levant Island oil refinery in the Persian Gulf. Meanwhile, President Trump noted that the U.S. peace proposal is currently "on life support". Congressional Candidate Alex Balazs in Studio: Veteran and Republican primary candidate Alex Balazs joins the show to discuss the logistical realities of the Iran conflict. Balazs forcefully dismisses rumors that the U.S. military is running low on ammunition, explaining that the military simply used the recent ceasefire to rest and refit its ships. He expects President Trump to escalate to severe kinetic strikes sooner rather than later. Homemade Silencer Arrest: A traffic stop in Fargo led to the arrest of a Wahpeton man, Quincy Maury, who blew a .134 blood alcohol level after running a red light and striking a curb. A vehicle search uncovered marijuana and a .22 LR pistol fitted with a homemade silencer. Maury told officers he built the device himself as a hobby after watching online videos so he could shoot without hearing protection. Moorhead ICE Ordinance Defeated: A highly contentious Moorhead City Council vote officially put an end to a proposed separation ordinance that sought to limit…

    1h 16m
  7. MAY 11

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 695: The Iran Rejection, Minimum Wage Realities, and Moorhead’s Political Return

    Steve Hallstrom kicks off a high-octane Monday, May 11th edition, reporting on a significant shift in the Middle East conflict after President Trump rejected a new Iranian peace proposal. Steve dives into the "real cost" of the $15 minimum wage in the Twin Cities and welcomes a familiar face as former Moorhead Mayor Del Rae Williams announces her bid for City Council. The show features Dan Perrine of James Patrick Real Estate on the local "effluent pocket" of housing and provides a chilling NTSB update on the plane crash that killed Representative Liz Conmey. Plus, a check on the Minnesota fishing opener and why "abort" was radioed 32 times before tragedy struck. Key Moments Trump Rejects Iran Proposal: Steve breaks down the latest escalation in the Iran conflict. Despite Iranian claims of demanding only "legitimate rights," President Trump labeled their formal response "totally unacceptable," sending oil prices back up to $96.73. Steve notes the President is now expected to pressure China for assistance during an upcoming visit to Beijing. The $15 Minimum Wage "Bust": Steve analyzes a Star Tribune report detailing the long-term failure of the $15 minimum wage in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Research from the Federal Reserve Bank shows that while hourly pay rose, it resulted in fewer available positions and an overall decline in total wage earnings for workers. Moorhead Political Comeback: Former Moorhead Mayor Del Rae Williams (2014–2018) has announced she is running for the Moorhead City Council in Ward 1. Williams, who originally planned to serve only one term as mayor, says she is eager to get back into city government to represent North Moorhead and downtown. Chilling NTSB Crash Update: The National Transportation Safety Board released new details on the plane crash that killed North Dakota lawmaker Liz Conmey. Investigations reveal the pilot radioed "abort" 32 times shortly after takeoff, with witnesses reporting the plane appeared low and struggling to climb before losing altitude. Local Real Estate Resilience: Dan Perrine joins the show to discuss why national housing slumps don't seem to apply to the Fargo-Moorhead area. He describes the local market as an "effluent pocket" where appropriately priced homes—particularly those under $300,000—continue to see high activity and quick sales. Minnesota Fishing Opener: Despite sunny skies, Steve reports a "windy and cool" start to the fishing season. With water temperatures in the low 40s, legendary guide Steve Carney warns that the elusive Minnesota walleye…

    1h 16m
  8. MAY 8

    The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 694: Middle East Hostilities, Smoky Skies, and the High Cost of Gas

    Steve Hallstrom hosts the Friday, May 8th edition, navigating a heavy news cycle that includes fresh hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz and a grim forecast for the upcoming summer. Steve breaks down the "point of no return" rhetoric coming from Iran and analyzes why gas prices in North Dakota are stubbornly clinging to the $4 mark. The show features a detailed look at the new wildfire alerts for the region and a conversation with Ward Cater on the surprising resilience of the used EV market. Plus, a check on the legal process involving Fargo city employees and a "miraculous" update from the regional ranching community. Key Moments Strait of Hormuz Escalation: The U.S. military reported that three warships eliminated "unprovoked" threats from Iranian forces yesterday. While President Trump insists the ceasefire remains in effect, Iranian leaders claim the U.S. "crossed a line" by launching strikes on Iranian ports. A Summer of Smoke: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is warning of a "particularly nasty" wildfire season due to El Niño-driven dry conditions. Forecasts predict 12 to 16 days of high-particulate air quality alerts for Minnesota, a trend expected to impact North Dakota as well. Fargo "Lawsuit" Clarification: Commissioner Dave Pepcorn doubled down on his claim that four former communications employees are suing the city for discrimination. While technically not yet a lawsuit, it was confirmed the individuals have filed administrative charges through the EEOC, a mandatory step before litigation. Gas Price Reality Check: Despite oil prices dipping slightly to $94.54 a barrel, the average price of regular unleaded in North Dakota has reached $4.16. Steve notes that gas prices have essentially doubled since the start of the regional hostilities. The Used EV Surge: Ward Cater of Vision Ford Lincoln joins the show to discuss why used electric vehicles are selling well. He notes that as early-adopter leases end, a new market of commuters is emerging, attracted to EVs as a "controlled commodity" that avoids the volatility of the oil market. Meth Ring Busted: A federal case reveals that over 60 pounds of methamphetamine were distributed in Fargo by a California-based ring. The group was allegedly led by Nathan Pappas, a convicted murderer who used contraband cell phones in prison to direct the operation. Fargo School Board Forum: Five candidates faced off over the issue of using public tax dollars for private school vouchers. Candidate Paul Moorer stood as the lone…

    1h 15m

About

Join Steve Hallstrom as he tackles the issues that matter most to you. With razor-sharp wit and unwavering conviction, Steve cuts through the noise and provides you with honest, unfiltered commentary that speaks directly to the issues that affect our community. With interactive segments and lively call-ins, listeners will be front and center in the conversation. Steve keeps you informed, empowered, and inspired. Tune in weekdays to catch the wave of conservative thought and be part of a community that celebrates the timeless principles that make our country great.

You Might Also Like