The Steve Hallstrom Show Episode 620: Legislative Showdowns & Truth or Trash

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.