• by Ray Schultz , May 11, 2023

Kristen Go is leaving her post as vice president and executive editor of news and initiatives at USA Todayto become editor in chief of CalMatters, a nonprofit news organization serving Californians.

At CalMatters, Go succeesds founding editor Dave Lesher, who will remain in a new role, leading an effort to transform government accountability reporting.

“CalMatters has consistently played an important role in impacting the lives of Californians,” said Go, a California native. “I’m thrilled to continue building on the great work, growing its presence around the state and working with our media partners to hold the powerful accountable and create a better California.”

Earlier in her career, Go served at the Denver Post and was part of the newsroom that won a Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the Columbine school massacre, Go also did a series on family violence that resulted in changes in state legislation. 

Meanwhile, Poynter notes that several high-ranking executives have left Gannett over the last six months, including Maribel Perez Wadsworth, publisher of USA Today and Nicole Carroll, editor in chief.  

However, it cannot be assumed that all of the departures were the result of layoffs.  

When Carroll’s resignation was announced in  April, Gannett said it was.launching a search for a replacement. It is not yet clear who, if anyone, will replace Go.

Earlier this month, Carroll resurfaced as head of a local journalism initiative at Arizona State University (ASU). 

It is also possible that some of those who left might have taken buyouts. Either way, Gannett stands to save on salaries.