USA TODAY Network has launched TODAY Californian, a new daily newsletter delivering focused coverage of California news, politics, sports, culture, and economic developments to readers in the state and nationwide.
The launch is supported by an expanded California section on USA TODAY's digital platform.
California—home to nearly 40 million people and a major driver of national discussions on technology, entertainment, climate policy, and economic innovation—receives dedicated attention through this initiative.
“TODAY Californian provides a fresh take on California news, sports and culture — told by journalists who live it, not just cover it, helping readers everywhere understand how the Golden State influences American life,” said Greg Burton, regional editor West for USA TODAY Network.
No identical state-branded daily newsletters (e.g., "TODAY [State]") have been announced or launched for other states by USA TODAY Network as of mid-January 2026. The initiative is described as an expansion specifically for California, leveraging its size, influence, and the network's eight local dailies there. Executives have noted it could potentially serve as a model for similar efforts elsewhere, but nothing comparable has rolled out yet.
Other organizations provide similar statewide or regional newsletter coverage in different states, such as:
- States Newsroom network (nonprofit outlets offering free state politics and policy newsletters in many states, including Alabama Reflector, Mississippi Today, and others).
- Texas Tribune (daily/weekly newsletters on Texas government, politics, and issues).
- CalMatters (California-focused, with multiple newsletters on state policy and news—separate from USA TODAY).
- New York Times' California Today (weekday newsletter on California news).
- L.A. Times' Essential California (daily roundup of state and local stories).