Submitting an opinion piece to USA Today offers a unique opportunity to reach a national audience and share your viewpoint on timely, impactful issues. As one of the most widely read news outlets in the United States, USA Today’s Opinion section features commentary from leading thinkers, professionals, and everyday citizens who have something important to say.
If you’re looking to gain visibility, promote a cause, or influence public conversation, understanding the usa today opinion submission process is essential. This article will guide you through what editors look for, how to craft a compelling opinion piece, and how to properly submit your article for consideration.
Table of Contents
Why USA Today’s Opinion Section Matters
USA Today’s Opinion section holds influence because it brings diverse voices into the spotlight. From social justice to public health, politics, education, and economics, USA Today provides a platform to express ideas that can reach millions.
Reasons to Submit Your Opinion Piece
- USA Today has one of the largest online and print readerships in the United States
- Being published in a nationally recognized outlet increases your credibility
- You have the chance to influence public discourse and shape perspectives
- Thought leaders and experts use the platform to advocate for meaningful change
- It’s an opportunity to amplify underrepresented voices or local issues on a national level
What Editors Are Looking For
A successful usa today opinion submission reflects relevance, clarity, and originality. Editors receive a high volume of submissions every day, so it’s important that yours stands out for the right reasons.
Editorial Criteria
- Your article must focus on a current, timely topic
- The piece should reflect a strong, well-argued opinion
- Articles must be original and not published elsewhere
- The tone should be professional and accessible to a general audience
- You must support your opinion with facts, logic, or personal insight
Choosing the Right Topic for Submission
To gain the editor’s attention, choose a topic that is either trending in the news or addresses a deeper issue with fresh perspective. USA Today favors opinion pieces that reflect the pulse of the nation.
Common Themes That Gain Traction
- Racial and social justice
- Climate change and environmental policy
- Technology, AI, and digital ethics
- Education reforms and student equity
- Public health and wellness
- Gun control and Second Amendment debates
- Political accountability and democracy
- Labor rights and economic inequality
How to Structure Your USA Today Opinion Piece
Your article needs to follow a logical flow while making a strong case for your opinion. Clarity and brevity are essential.
Basic Structure to Follow
Introduction
Grab the reader’s attention with a powerful opening line. Present your central argument or opinion early to set the tone. Use a fact, statistic, or story to make the issue immediately relatable.
Main Argument
Expand on your thesis using 2–4 supporting points. Back up your views with research, real-world examples, or expert quotes. Be persuasive and to the point.
Counterargument
Briefly acknowledge opposing viewpoints to demonstrate awareness and balance. Then, respectfully explain why your perspective is more valid or urgent.
Conclusion
Wrap up with a strong closing statement. Reinforce your message and leave the reader with something to reflect on—whether that’s a call to action, a challenge to think differently, or a hopeful note.
Style and Tone Recommendations
For your usa today opinion submission to be successful, it needs to be polished, persuasive, and digestible. These style tips will improve your article’s readability and overall quality.
Writing Tips
- Write in a conversational yet authoritative tone
- Avoid jargon, technical language, or insider terminology
- Use short paragraphs and sentence variety
- Keep the total word count between 550 and 750 words
- Avoid being overly promotional or self-serving
- Proofread carefully for grammar, punctuation, and factual accuracy
- Stick to active voice for stronger delivery
Submitting Your Opinion Piece to USA Today
Once your article is ready, follow the correct process for submitting to USA Today’s Opinion section. A professional approach increases your chances of being noticed.
Where to Submit
Send your opinion article via email to: [email protected]
What to Include in Your Email
- Your full name and contact information
- A short, 2–3 sentence bio that identifies your expertise or connection to the topic
- The article pasted into the body of the email (no attachments)
- A subject line that clearly describes your submission (e.g., “Opinion Submission: The Urgent Need for Digital Privacy Reform”)
- A brief summary of your piece at the beginning of the email to hook the editor’s interest
What Happens After You Submit
There is no guaranteed timeline or confirmation beyond an automated reply. If your piece is accepted, you will usually be contacted within several business days.
The Review Process
- Your article is reviewed by the editorial team
- If selected, they may request edits or revisions
- You’ll receive information on when and where the article will be published
- If rejected, you likely won’t receive feedback unless requested specifically
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-written articles can be rejected if they fail to meet basic criteria. Avoid these pitfalls to increase your chances of success.
Mistakes That Hurt Your Submission
- Submitting overly long pieces that exceed the word limit
- Ignoring current events or relevance
- Failing to express a clear opinion
- Submitting previously published or AI-generated content
- Using overly emotional or combative tone without evidence
- Including promotional links or product mentions
Ways to Improve Your Chances of Getting Published
Success with a usa today opinion submission often depends on timing, clarity, and originality. A few simple strategies can help your submission rise above the noise.
Proven Strategies for Acceptance
- Tie your opinion to a breaking news event or trending story
- Use a unique personal story to humanize your argument
- Show how the issue affects a large group of people or underserved community
- Position yourself as an expert or someone with direct experience
- Keep your pitch focused and respectful
What to Do After Getting Published
Being published in USA Today is a major accomplishment. Don’t let the opportunity go to waste—promote your article and use it as a stepping stone for more media exposure.
Promotion Tips
- Share the article on social media platforms with thoughtful commentary
- Send it out via your professional email newsletter
- Add the link to your press kit or speaker profile
- Mention it in future media interviews or press releases
- Use it to pitch guest articles or podcasts on related topics
Comparing USA Today to Other Opinion Platforms
While USA Today is prestigious, consider submitting to additional platforms depending on your niche, tone, and message.
Other High-Impact Outlets for Opinion Writing
- New York Times Opinion
- Washington Post Opinions
- The Hill
- CNN Opinion
- Time Magazine
- Politico
- Forbes (if your piece relates to business or leadership)
- Medium (for more personal, long-form storytelling)
Final Thoughts on Crafting a Strong USA Today Opinion Submission
Submitting to a national platform like USA Today gives you a rare opportunity to make your voice heard on a massive scale. Whether you’re writing about climate change, policy reform, education, healthcare, or another topic close to your heart, the key to success is relevance, clarity, and purpose.
When crafting your usa today opinion submission, focus on bringing value to the reader and the broader public discourse. Editors are looking for well-structured, compelling content that moves conversations forward. With preparation and persistence, your next opinion piece could make headlines and spark real change.
Would you like help drafting your first opinion piece or polishing your final draft for submission? IMCWire is here to support professionals, business leaders, and communicators who are ready to step into the spotlight.
