News Corp Plans California Post Launch in 2026 Amid LA Times Declines

Rupert Murdoch's News Corp is launching The California Post, a new right-wing daily newspaper and digital platform in Los Angeles, set to debut in early 2026. Modeled after the New York Post, the outlet will feature a mix of news, sports, politics, entertainment, and celebrity gossip with a confrontational and irreverent tone, aiming to fill perceived gaps in California's media landscape. The launch coincides with the struggles of the Los Angeles Times, which has faced significant layoffs and subscriber losses, and comes amid a broader decline in local newspapers nationwide. News Corp executives, including CEO Robert Thomson and New York Post editor-in-chief Keith Poole, emphasize the opportunity to engage readers starved for serious reporting and diverse viewpoints, especially as California prepares for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. Critics highlight concerns that the publication will promote highly partisan content, including strong support for President Trump and aggressive right-wing commentary targeting Democratic figures. The California Post aims to leverage the existing large online audience in California and establish a prominent conservative voice in the state’s evolving media environment.