California Post Launches: New York Tabloid Eyes Golden State Market

LOS ANGELES – A new, brash voice entered California’s media landscape on Monday, January 26, with the launch of The California Post, a daily tabloid newspaper and news site backed by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp. The publication, a sister to the New York Post, aims to deliver a “common sense” approach to news, sports, opinion, and entertainment, according to editor-in-chief Nick Papps.

The California Post is establishing its newsroom on the Fox Lot in Century City, with a team of reporters tasked with telling stories others “won’t or can’t,” as stated in promotional materials. The launch comes after plans were announced in August 2025 to bring the New York Post’s style of journalism to the West Coast.

The debut issue didn’t shy away from provocative content, featuring a cover story on filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie, headlined “Oscar Wild,” alongside a report on a millionaire murder allegation. The mix of celebrity gossip, political news, and other coverage reflects the New York Post’s signature approach, seeking “shock value,” as described by reports.

Sean Giancola, chief executive and publisher of New York Post Media Group, described a “news desert” in California for audiences seeking alternative narratives. He believes The California Post can fill that void with “common sense journalism.” “We’re having a great time, and the first three days have been very successful,” Giancola said on Wednesday. “We’re going to stay true to our roots… The Post has been around for 200 years, and we’re looking to expand that brand to California.”

The launch occurs during a challenging time for local newspapers in California, with publications like the Los Angeles Times facing financial difficulties and staff reductions. The California Post’s arrival is seen by some as a potential disruption to the existing media ecosystem. Jonathan Handel, an entertainment lawyer, noted that the Los Angeles Times is “stumbling like a zombie through space,” and that even a small impact from the California Post could further harm the legacy publication.

Political tensions also provide a backdrop for the launch. The California Post arrives as Governor Gavin Newsom clashes with President Donald Trump on various issues and is reportedly considering a 2028 presidential run. The timing, with upcoming elections for Los Angeles mayor, governor, and midterm races, suggests an intent to engage on the political front. According to Handel, the rivalry between Trump and Newsom “almost demanded that the California Post come into existence.”

Gabriel Kahn, a professor at USC Annenberg school for communication and journalism, suggested the publication could be a tactic to influence political negotiations, mirroring Rupert Murdoch’s approach in other markets. He also noted that the print edition may not be sustainable long-term, calling it “a great way to lose money.”

Despite concerns about profitability, Giancola emphasized the importance of both print and digital platforms. He highlighted the significant online readership the New York Post already enjoys in California, with 3.5 million unique visitors per month in Los Angeles alone, as of an August 2025 release. “We’ll say it,” Giancola said, echoing the publication’s tagline, “We want to say what’s really going on in the state and across the country. I think that’s what Californians are looking for.”

The California Post plans to expand its content offerings to include audio, video, podcasts, and a digital application, alongside its print edition. The news organization currently employs approximately 80 people, supported by the 300-plus staff at the New York Post.