As I've said elsewhere - I would not agree with the idea that California and New York offer the same regional, cultural, or lifestyle experience. But that's the logic behind the "5 Americas" analysis - that the way of life in New York and California are similar enough that you would not feel like you were in "a different America" if you were teleported from Time's Square to Hollywood & Highland.
Which is still debatable. But it's important to know WHY you're mad about a thing.