• by Ray Schultz , Yesterday

Gannett has launched a news and lifestyle program called Connecting America.

The show debuted on Monday, and will continue on weekdays from 7 to 9 p.m. In addition, there will be a two-hour “best of” program on weekend mornings.

The program features three award-winning journalists -- Alisyn Camerota, Jim Rosenfield, and Dave Briggs -- and takes place in an actual neighborhood diner. 

“What other place serves up a mix of opinions, ideas, and human connection like a diner?” says Dianne Doctor, the show’s creator. “If America is the melting pot, then the diner is the flavorful stew.”

Connecting America will appear on all of USA Today’s free ad-supported streaming Fast channels, and on its YouTube channel. 

In addition to the hosts, the program will feature Dr. Jeff Gardere, nicknamed “America’s Psychologist;” Amy Kellogg, former Fox News senior foreign affairs correspondent; and Jim McQueeny, a news commentator.

Also contributing will be USA Today journalists reporting on everything from Capitol Hill to Taylor Swift, Gannett says.

“We’re proud to contribute this unique program filled with great talent, the voices of real people, and fact-driven, impactful, high-quality journalism to the USA Today Channel,” Doctor adds.