United StatesOwnership & classification
Founded: 1982
Ownership
USA Today was launched in 1982 by Al Neuharth and is published by Gannett. In 2019 Gannett was acquired by New Media Investment Group (parent of GateHouse Media), and the merged company retained the Gannett name; the deal was financed with a roughly $1.79 billion loan from Apollo Global Management. Gannett is now a publicly traded company controlled by institutional shareholders, with Apollo, Alta Fundamental Advisers and BlackRock among the largest holders.
Funding
Funded by advertising, print and digital subscriptions, and circulation across Gannett's large national newspaper network. It is a commercial, for-profit operation.
Affiliation & stance
Editorially it is broadly mainstream with a modest center-left lean and no party or state ties. Because it is owned by a publicly traded commercial publisher with no party or government control, it is classified INDEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 142
65/100
Factual
66/100
Objective
480
Articles
466
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Sprouts Recalled After 55 Illnesses Reported in 15 States
Sprouts Inc. has issued a recall of certain alfalfa sprouts after an outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella infections was linked to 55 illnesses across 15 U.S. states. The recall was announced on August 22 by Everything Sprouts LLC, with the FDA posting the notice to inform the public. Illnesses began between May 31 and August 8, with four individuals hospitalized and no fatalities reported as of August 21. The affected products include specific lots of alfalfa sprouts and mixes sold under the Everything Sprouts and Calco brands, distributed between May 27 and August 21 to stores in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The CDC reports 46 cases of STEC infection, seven cases of Salmonella, and two cases involving both pathogens. Epidemiological data indicates a strong link between the sprouts and the illnesses, though the exact source of contamination is still under investigation. Consumers are advised to discard the products and thoroughly clean any surfaces they may have contacted.
Pentagon moves to fire publisher and editor of Stars and Stripes
The Pentagon has announced plans to terminate the publisher and editor-in-chief of Stars and Stripes, a U.S. military-funded news outlet, along with a Middle East reporter, citing insubordination. The firings relate to interviews these individuals gave to CBS News for a 'CBS Sunday Morning' segment in July, where they expressed concerns about Pentagon-imposed censorship. Publisher Max Lederer and Editor-in-Chief Erik Slavin were given five days to appeal their dismissals, while reporter Lara Korte also received termination notice. Slavin stated that his firing was based on comments about maintaining editorial independence, which he claims is legally mandated. Korte criticized the firings as harmful to military communities and emphasized her commitment to independent journalism. A Defense Department spokesperson did not comment, and White House adviser Stephen Miller suggested the firings were justified. Stars and Stripes later published an open letter from a newly appointed military deputy, alleging lack of communication.
6 standouts from Rams' 34-0 win over Saints
The Los Angeles Rams defeated the New Orleans Saints 34-0 in a football match. The article highlights six standout players or performances from the game. It focuses on the Rams' dominant performance, emphasizing their offensive and defensive strategies that led to the shutout victory. The piece provides insights into individual contributions that were crucial to the team's success. No specific details about player names or statistics are provided in the excerpt.
Commanders' Dan Quinn finally acknowledges Washington's big problem
The article titled 'Commanders' Dan Quinn finally acknowledges Washington's big problem' from USA Today discusses head coach Dan Quinn of the Washington Commanders addressing the team's significant challenges. The piece highlights Quinn's acknowledgment of issues within the organization, though specific details about the problems are not elaborated upon in the provided text. The focus appears to be on Quinn's recognition of internal struggles, possibly related to performance, management, or other operational concerns. As the article is brief and lacks detailed content, the summary captures the general intent without additional specifics.
Broncos’ Bo Nix Gets Honest About Injury Return After Preseason Loss
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix returned to action during the team's preseason game against the Green Bay Packers, performing well with 6 completions for 76 yards and a touchdown pass. Despite a strong start, the Broncos lost 33-13 as the Packers dominated the second half. Nix expressed satisfaction with his return, stating it felt 'very smooth' and 'exactly where I left off' since his fractured ankle injury in the playoffs. He remains hopeful about playing in the next preseason game and is optimistic about contributing to the team's chances of reaching the Super Bowl. The Broncos face challenges in the competitive AFC, currently not considered top contenders.
Tuesday's election results could spell real trouble for Florida Republicans
The article discusses the implications of recent election results in Florida, focusing on the Senate primary where Democrat Angie Nixon defeated favored candidate Alex Vindman. It argues that Nixon's victory signals a shift in political dynamics, potentially harming the Republican Party. The article highlights concerns over Governor Ron DeSantis' absence from the ballot and the controversial nomination of Byron Donalds, a Trump-backed candidate, who faced opposition from many Republicans. The author suggests that Nixon's win reflects broader voter discontent with established politicians and could impact future elections, including the 2028 presidential race.
Dolphins release veteran CB hours before preseason game vs. Giants
The Miami Dolphins released veteran cornerback Jalen Ramsey just hours before their preseason game against the New York Giants. The decision came as the team made adjustments to its roster ahead of the matchup. Ramsey had been with the team since 2019 and was considered a key defensive player. His release likely impacted the team's defensive strategy for the game. The move highlights the dynamic nature of NFL rosters during training camp and preseason.
'The Pitt' star stepped 'out of neurodivergent closet' into Emmy nom triumph
An actor from the TV show 'The Pitt' has publicly shared their experience of coming out as neurodivergent, a revelation that coincided with receiving an Emmy nomination. The individual discussed their journey of self-acceptance and how embracing their neurodivergence contributed to their professional success. This disclosure highlights ongoing conversations around mental health awareness and representation in the entertainment industry. The actor's openness is seen as a significant moment for visibility within the neurodivergent community.
One notable difference with A.J. Brown stands out to Mike Vrabel
The article discusses a comment made by New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel regarding A.J. Brown, a player on the team. Vrabel highlights a particular aspect of Brown's performance or approach that sets him apart from other players. The focus is on Vrabel's observation about Brown, likely relating to his gameplay style, work ethic, or impact on the field. This commentary provides insight into how Vrabel perceives Brown's contributions to the team.
Here are the 10 wealthiest suburbs in America
The article lists the 10 wealthiest suburbs in America based on median household income data. It highlights affluent communities across different states, emphasizing their economic status and potential quality of life factors. The focus is purely on financial metrics without delving into social, cultural, or political aspects of these areas. No specific policies or political figures are discussed, keeping the content focused on demographic and economic indicators.
6 Panthers who improved their stock in preseason win over Jaguars
The article highlights six Carolina Panthers players whose performance during a preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars positively impacted their standing within the team. The piece focuses on individual player contributions and how they may influence future roster decisions or playing time. It does not provide detailed statistical analysis or broader team strategy discussions, instead emphasizing personal development and potential role enhancement.
Browns, Texans RB Nick Chubb Officially Retires From NFL: 'Huge Blessing'
Nick Chubb, former Georgia Bulldogs and NFL running back, officially retired from professional football in August 2026. His career was marked by resilience after suffering a significant knee injury in 2015 during his college years, which initially threatened to end his football journey. Despite the setback, Chubb went on to have an eight-year NFL career, including stints with the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans. He achieved notable success, including four consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons between 2019 and 2022. However, another major knee injury in 2023 forced him to undergo multiple surgeries before returning to play in 2024. In his retirement announcement, Chubb reflected on his journey, emphasizing the importance of health and life beyond football, expressing no regrets despite some unmet goals.
Reports of sexual assault in U.S. military declined for third straight year
The Pentagon reported that official sexual assault cases in the U.S. military decreased for the third consecutive year in fiscal year 2025, with 7,998 reports filed compared to 8,195 in 2024. The rate of reporting increased from 25% in 2023 to 33% in 2025, indicating improved willingness among service members to come forward. Anonymous surveys showed declining rates of unwanted sexual contact among active-duty personnel, with women reporting such experiences at 4.3% in 2025 versus 6.8% in 2023, and men at 1% versus 1.3%. Officials emphasized that higher reporting rates allow for better accountability and support for victims, while underscoring the negative impact of sexual assault on military readiness and morale.