Washington State Internships
Constituent Services and Outreach
State interns work with staff members in Senator Cantwell’s offices throughout Washington state, directly interacting with the public and learning firsthand about the constituent advocacy process. Interns will help field constituent requests, communicate with federal government agencies, research, and interact with the public and local groups. Interns may attend briefings with concerned citizens and organizations. Generally, interns must be able to commit to 15 hours per week (minimum).
Washington, D.C. Internships
All Washington, D.C. interns assist with leading tours of the U.S. Capitol, front office reception, and various constituent services and events. Generally, interns must be able to commit to 20 hours per week (minimum). Interns work in all departments, and should be prepared for their experience to span the following three areas. We ask that you rate your top interests on our intern application.
Legislative
Interns working in the legislative office will work closely with the Senator’s policy team to help process constituent mail, support and research legislative initiatives, attend hearings and briefings, and draft constituent correspondence. They will be mentored by legislative staff on issues of interest to both the intern and to Washington state. Candidates should be strong writers and researchers, and are accepted from a wide variety of educational studies, including political science, social/public policy, science, agriculture, business and more.
Press
Interns working in the communications office will assist press staff with media inquiries, issues research, tracking media coverage, monitoring current news stories, assisting with new media efforts, occasionally helping staff and prepare for press conferences and other press events, and drafting of written materials such as media advisories, press releases, columns, etc. Interns will work in a challenging, team-oriented, fast-paced environment. Successful candidates will have a background in politics, communication, or journalism, a strong interest in public policy and political communications, and should be excellent writers.
Scheduling
Interns working in the scheduling office will assist our scheduler and the Senator’s Executive Assistant in making the Senator’s schedule, and confirming appointments. Candidates are accepted from a wide variety of educational studies, including business, political science, public policy, and more. Successful candidates will have a professional demeanor, be well-spoken and posses strong organizational skills.
Preference will be given to students who are from Washington state or are enrolled in a Washington state college or university. The Cantwell Internship Program is unpaid, and students are expected to arrange for their own housing, food and transportation. We are happy to work with your school so you can receive academic credit for your time in our office.