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
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 nearly in half in major hubs like Houston and Atlanta.
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The "Criminal" Transition Narrative: Steve explores a narrative shift within the gay community regarding medical procedures for trans children. He reads from a viral post arguing that current medical practices involving minors have crossed a "criminal" line, a perspective he notes is becoming more common.
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Meta & Google Under Fire: A new report finds tech giants guilty of intentionally making social media platforms "too addicting" for children. Steve outlines five key takeaways from the report, highlighting the growing movement to hold big tech accountable for youth mental health.