McLean, Va. - USA Today, the national newspaper published by McLean-based Gannett (NYSE: GCI), plans to cut around 20 newsroom positions -- nearly 5% of its total -- next month, the Associated Press reported on Monday, citing an internal memo.

"We're facing unprecedented economic challenges and we have to cut spending," editor Ken Paulson told staff in a memo Sunday night, which was obtained by the wire service.

USA Today leads the nation with an average daily circulation of 2.3 million.

The news comes just weeks after reports surfaced that Gannett plans to cut about 10% of jobs -- upwards of 3,000 positions -- at its local papers.

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