News Corp, led by Rupert Murdoch, is set to launch its first major U.S. daily newspaper in nearly 15 years, the California Post, in Los Angeles in early 2026.
The publication, under the New York Post Media Group led by CEO Sean Giancola, aims to capitalize on the declining Los Angeles Times, which has lost subscribers and staff. The California Post will feature "common-sense journalism," celebrity news, entertainment, and sports across digital platforms, print, audio, and social media.
Giancola noted the company already reaches 3 million in L.A. and 7 million in California, leveraging its existing audience.
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| Rupert Murdoch |
Industry experts see an opportunity for a populist, right-leaning tabloid in California, where mainstream journalism dominates.
The New York Post’s digital brands, including Page Six and Decider, draw 90 million monthly unique visitors, with profitability achieved in 2022 through lean operations and diverse formats like podcasts and e-commerce.
Giancola views California as a "news desert" ripe for the Post’s formula. Experts like Jonathan Weber and Ken Doctor suggest a culturally conservative, populist approach could attract readers in a state where 38% voted for Trump in the last election.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Times, facing losses, cut over 20% of its newsroom in 2024 and plans to add conservative voices ahead of a potential IPO.