Publication: Bolts Magazine
Topics: Politics, Criminal Justice, Voting Rights, Local Government
Rate: $800+ per article
Deadline: Rolling (open pitches)
Editor: Daniel Nichanian, Editor-in-Chief & Founder
Submit Via: Email pitches to pitches@boltsmag.org

What They’re Looking For:

Bolts Magazine is calling for freelance reporters with strong story ideas on U.S. local politics, criminal justice, and voting rights. They want deeply reported, original pieces that expose overlooked systems, amplify local issues, and connect them to broader democratic struggles.

If you’re passionate about political reporting, investigative journalism, or civic rights, this is a high-paying freelance writing job worth pitching.

Resources/Guides:

Bolts has put together a full pitching guide here, outlining exactly what kind of stories they commission.

How To Get This Client:

To grab Bolts Mag’s attention, your pitch must:

• Highlight a fresh, locally grounded angle (not just national politics).
• Show deep reporting potential with access to sources or data.
• Demonstrate your ability to connect policy and people’s lived experiences.

If you’re unsure how to craft the perfect pitch, this is where Sure Media Training comes in. Our program teaches you how to position your ideas for high-paying outlets like Bolts, making sure editors instantly see your value.

🔥 Pro tip: Editors here value writers who show initiative with clear, compelling pitch emails—not vague “I’d like to write about politics” statements.