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Political Writer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Political Director

San Jose, CA · On-site

$128 - $142/hr

Political Director SEIU Local 521 was founded in 2007 when 5 local unions came together in the Bay ... High level ability to communicate orally and in writing. * Ability to establish, maintain rapport ...

Political Director SEIU Local 521 was founded in 2007 when 5 local unions came together in the Bay ... High level ability to communicate orally and in writing. * Ability to establish, maintain rapport ...

Political Director SEIU Local 521 was founded in 2007 when 5 local unions came together in the Bay ... High level ability to communicate orally and in writing. * Ability to establish, maintain rapport ...

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Showing results 1-20

Political Writer information

See California salary details

$13

$38

$57

How much do political writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for political writer in California is $38.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $48.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a political writer do?

A political writer researches, analyzes, and writes about political events, policies, and issues for various publications, such as newspapers, magazines, websites, or blogs. They often cover elections, government decisions, legislative developments, and political trends, aiming to inform or persuade readers. Political writers may also interview politicians, attend press conferences, and provide commentary or opinion pieces to help the public understand complex political topics.

What does a political writer do?

A political writer creates news reports, articles, speeches, and other written content about politics and events, including stories related to government, political leadership, and public opinion. As a political writer, you can be a journalist, blogger, or content writer and work for a media organization, newspaper or magazine, or private political-focused clients. Your duties may include items like updating a newspaper or magazine column, interviewing political figures or citizens about political issues, writing articles, blogs, or essays about current political events and issues, or, if you work directly for a candidate or campaign, writing speeches for political figures. Your responsibilities may also include ghostwriting content for government, candidate, or other political websites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Writer, you need excellent research, analytical, and writing skills, usually supported by a degree in journalism, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with digital publishing platforms, fact-checking tools, and data visualization software is often required. Strong critical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly help writers stand out. These skills ensure accurate, insightful, and engaging political content that informs and influences public discourse.

How does a political writer typically collaborate with editors and other team members to ensure accuracy and balanced reporting?

Political Writers often work closely with editors, fact-checkers, and sometimes legal teams to produce accurate and balanced articles. Regular editorial meetings and drafts are reviewed to ensure that coverage adheres to journalistic standards and avoids bias. Writers may also interact with other reporters to share sources or insights, especially on complex stories. This collaborative environment helps maintain high-quality reporting and provides valuable feedback to improve writing and research skills.

What is the difference between Political Writer vs Political Journalist?

AspectPolitical WriterPolitical Journalist
CredentialsTypically holds degrees in political science, journalism, or communicationsOften has journalism or media-related degrees, with experience in reporting
Work EnvironmentWorks independently or as a freelancer, producing articles, blogs, or opinion piecesWorks for newspapers, TV, online media, covering political events and news
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by media outlets, blogs, think tanks, and political organizationsEmployed by news organizations, media outlets, and online platforms

In summary, Political Writers focus on creating opinion pieces, essays, or analysis, often with a more personal or interpretive approach. Political Journalists primarily report on current events, providing factual coverage of political news. While both roles require knowledge of politics and strong writing skills, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Writer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Political Writer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Political Writer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Political Writer job openings:

Infographic showing various Political Writer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,311 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Moderate Writer Intern

Our National Conversation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

Internship

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Company Description
OUR NATIONAL CONVERSATION (ONC) seeks to reduce partisanship and promote
effective solutions to America's challenges. Powered by America's youth, we host a
media outlet, produce educational materials and facilitate dialogue intended to
make America a better country.
Job Description
Job Title: Moderate Writer Intern
Reports To: Core Content Team Lead and the Managing Editor
Job Description:
The Moderate Writer Intern contributes to ONC's mission of providing nonpartisan news, opinions, and policy solutions by completing essential tasks in the Core Content Department. The Moderate Writer Intern will focus on writing political content for ONC, including but not necessarily limited to high-quality OpEds and Policy Proposals for ONC's website. Though Writers will be responsible for producing their own content, the process can be collaborative.
[This post may be used to also fill other writing roles. If interested in other writing roles, you are strongly encouraged to apply.]
Furthermore, this intern must ensure that ONC's commitment to nonpartisanship, ideological diversity, and civil debate is evident in all published work. Our writers consist of conservative, progressive, moderate and factually-based writers. This intern must have interest and basic experience in at least one of these areas. Lastly, Applicants must submit a writing sample with their application.
This position is remote, with work primarily conducted over Zoom and Slack, so applicants must be comfortable coordinating in a remote environment and are expected to maintain a high level of communication.
Benefits: Flexible schedule, college credit, professional networking, and resume-building experience.
Compensation: This is not a paid position.
Responsibilities:
  • Create consistent content for the website with a team of core content writers.
  • Ensure ONC's commitment to nonpartisanship, ideological diversity, and civil debate is reflected in all published work.
  • Occasionally participate in podcasts, events, and other tasks as needed.

Qualifications
Requirements: The Moderate Writer Intern should have the following skills, education, and experience:
  • Working towards a degree in Political Science, Journalism, English or Literature, Public Policy, Media Studies, International Relations, and/or related fields
  • Exceptional writing skills are required (English)
  • Responsive, consistent, and effective communicator, even during conflict
  • Experience in policy research, political commentary, political science, or a related domain preferred
  • Ability to work remotely and on their own schedule in order to make deadlines
  • Google Workspace experience preferred
  • Ability to occasionally attend weekly All Hands meetings
  • Ability to attend weekly (Friday) Editorial meetings
  • Must be authorized to intern in the U.S.

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
**Must submit writing sample with application