The New York Post is making a bold move. They’re launching a new publication, The California Post, set to debut in early 2026. This sister paper will be based in Los Angeles and will be part of the New York Post Media Group, a subsidiary of News Corp owned by Rupert Murdoch.
The California Post aims to bring the same lively and entertaining style that fans love about the New York Post but with a focus on West Coast news. Expect a mix of local stories, entertainment, sports, and the clever headlines that the Post is known for. This new venture will also include a daily print edition, a nod to traditional media in an increasingly digital world.
Keith Poole, the New York Post’s editor-in-chief, emphasized the importance of California. “It’s the most populous state, a hub for entertainment, and leading in technology and advanced manufacturing,” he said. It seems the aim is not just to entertain but also to engage with serious local issues, drawing on the rich tapestry of California life.
Nick Papps, who has experience with News Corp, will lead the new paper. Sharing resources with the New York Post will allow them to tap into established reporting practices, enhancing their news coverage. Robert Thomson, News Corp’s chief executive, believes this will fill a gap in the current media landscape—one full of low-quality reporting and lacking in humor.
Interestingly, Los Angeles is home to a large number of digital readers for the Post. Nearly 3.5 million unique visitors come from this area, with around 7.3 million statewide. A staggering 90% of the Post’s digital audience is already outside New York, suggesting a strong demand for their brand of journalism in California.
The move also comes at a crucial time for California’s news scene. With many local papers struggling or closing due to rising costs and falling ad revenue, there’s a noticeable gap in quality journalism. According to the 2023 State of Local News report from Northwestern Medill School of Journalism, California has lost about one-third of its newspapers since 2005, highlighting the urgent need for new voices in media.
By entering this market, The California Post faces established competitors like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter, which dominate entertainment news. However, with its unique editorial style and focus on California culture, it could carve out its own niche in the bustling media landscape.
This venture reflects a significant trend where established media outlets are adapting and expanding, especially in urban areas. As audiences look for diverse and relatable content, The California Post could very well be the fresh voice that resonates with a new generation of readers.