Candidate for Council, Film/TV/Streaming Sector
Hi! I’m Ali Barthwell. I’m running for a Council seat from Film/TV/Streaming. I’m a staff writer for Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. I’ve been a member of the WGA-East since 2020 and this is my first TV writing job. I was also a member of the 2026 WGA Negotiating Committee. I’ve been a member of other unions before I joined the WGA as a teacher and a touring actor. I’m a proud guild member because of all the support and help the Guild has given to me as a cancer patient and survivor. I want to be a Council member to support other writers who are dealing with illness, writers living in other parts of the country besides New York and LA, and new guild members, trying to figure out who to ask for help. A strong and thriving guild will be able to provide that support. The issues important to me are healthcare, room sizes, and opportunities for writer advancement! Thank you!
Endorsements
Larry Cohen, Nicole Conlan, Sean Crespo, Lisa Cullen, Carol Hartsell, Liz Hynes, Mark Kramer, Christopher Kyle, Susan Rinkunas, Sharyn Rothstein, Erica Saleh, Sasha Stewart, Felipe Torres Medina
Endorse Ali Barthwell for Council, Film/TV/Streaming Sector
Note: WGAW members who wish to endorse a candidate may follow the process outlined in section G.1.B of the 2026 Election Policy.
