The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 604: Bracing for the Chaos of 2026

On the final day of 2025, host Steve Hallstrom reflects on a year of major shifts while looking ahead to a high-stakes 2026. This episode balances New Year’s nostalgia—including a deep dive into the true meaning of "Auld Lang Syne"—with heavy-hitting news updates. From congressional demands for Governor Tim Walz to testify on Capitol Hill regarding historic fraud to the rollout of Minnesota’s controversial new Paid Leave Act, the conversation explores the financial and political hurdles facing the region. Whether you’re interested in the "Person of the Year" debate, local fire department stats, or the million-dollar stakes of the college football transfer portal, this episode captures the heartbeat of a community on the brink of a new chapter. Key Moments Capitol Hill Calling: Steve breaks down the major news that Congressional Republicans have invited Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison to testify in February regarding massive social services fraud in Minnesota. This follows the Trump administration's decision to freeze $185 million in childcare funding. Minnesota's Paid Leave Act: A detailed analysis of the new state benefit launching in 2026. Steve warns of the hidden costs, potential for abuse, and the reality that employees will see money taken from their paychecks for a benefit that doesn't offer full pay. The "Auld Lang Syne" Mystery: Ever wondered what you’re actually singing at midnight? Steve investigates the Scottish origins of the holiday anthem, its translation to "old long since," and why the version in It's a Wonderful Life sounds a little different. Fargo’s 2025 Totals: The Fargo Fire Department reports a staggering 14,600 calls for the year, with Steve noting the surprising fact that 75% of those calls are for medical emergencies rather than fires. Farmer's Perspective: Local farmer Trigvy Skolnis joins the show to discuss a year of record-large crops contrasted with "contract low" prices. They discuss the impact of Canadian wildfire smoke on soybean yields and the anxiety of the 2026 outlook. Million-Dollar Portals: The conversation turns to college athletics, where rumors of million-dollar NIL offers are drawing star players from NDSU and the Gophers into the transfer portal, changing the landscape of Division I sports. Person of the Year: Steve asks the audience to weigh in on who defined 2025, with early mentions for President Trump and local conservative legends.