Andra is a writer and political professional. Her dual passions for social justice and storytelling have inspired all of her professional work, from national politics to journalism to theater.

Andra began her career in politics, as a junior research staffer on President Barack Obama’s first campaign for the presidency. She later worked in communications at the U.S. House of Representatives, where she helped pass the Affordable Care Act, and as a presidential appointee to the U.S. Environmental Agency, where she crafted messaging for national environmental initiatives.

While in Washington, Andra immersed herself in D.C.’s vibrant theater scene. She studied acting at Studio Theatre’s acting conservatory. Andra also directed numerous short theater pieces at DC’s Theater J. As a theater artist, her storytelling skills evolved and strengthened.

Andra Belknap works with Tina Tchen, former Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama, to finalize Underwood’s 2018 victory remarks.

Rep. Lauren Underwood and Andra Belknap, Election Day 2020

Andra returned to her native California in 2016 to work as a journalist for the Ojai Valley News. Andra is immensely proud of the reporting work she did while evacuated from her Ojai home during the 2017 Thomas Fire — a record-breaking disaster that was exacerbated by the climate crisis. While at the OVN, she also delighted in writing profile pieces (characters spanned from the Ojai Paranormal Investigators to local political figures), and found special meaning in crafting obituaries.

Andra re-committed herself to political work in 2018. Moved by images of children and families incarcerated at the U.S. - Mexico border and angered by ICE’s presence in her own community, she dedicated herself to the goal of flipping control of the U.S. House of Representatives to the Democrats. Andra achieved that goal as communications director to U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, the youngest Black woman ever elected to Congress. Lauren, a registered nurse, represents former Republican Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert’s former Illinois congressional district. Andra led the Congresswoman’s communications during her successful reelection campaign in 2020. She continues writing speeches for Underwood, and proudly drafted her 2021 and 2022 commencement addresses.

Andra regularly contributes writing and commentary to local publications, and is available for hire as a ghostwriter. Her experience includes op-eds, speeches, obituaries and professional bios. Andra finds great meaning in helping others tell their stories: it’s an honor.

Get in touch with Andra by filling out this form. Check out samples of her published work here. For examples of ghostwriting work, please reach out!