Government Affairs Intern

To be considered for this role, you must apply directly through our online application. 

About the Role

This paid, in-person internship in Washington, DC (25–40 hours per week over 12 weeks) joins Cato’s Government Affairs team at the intersection of scholarship and policy. 

You’ll translate Cato research into clear, actionable briefings for policymakers; track legislative and regulatory updates; attend hearings and events; and deliver concise summaries to staff.

The role emphasizes precision, professional communication, and dependable execution in support of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace.

Responsibilities

• Track and report on daily news, Cato scholarship, Cato mentions of policymakers, and Cato references in government documents and sources.
• Support department record-keeping, including maintaining Excel spreadsheets and other databases.
• Attend and deliver summaries of briefings, hearings, and other events as directed.
• Conduct applied research on legislation, regulations, and legislator backgrounds.
• Create and distribute materials to policymakers.
• Other related duties and projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in US state or federal government affairs/external relations (e.g., Capitol Hill, state legislature/governor’s office, agency, advocacy/public affairs, or university government relations); alignment with Cato’s principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace.
• Strong interest in government affairs and in converting research into practical policy changes.
• Exceptional writing and interpersonal skills for communicating with policymakers and staff.
• Strong proofreading and copyediting—tone, accuracy, and concision.
• Attention to detail and dependable follow-through in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to monitor legislation and events, quickly synthesize developments, and deliver concise, actionable summaries.

The Cato Internship Program

Cato’s paid internships are available for undergraduates, recent graduates, graduate students, law students, and early-career professionals who are strongly committed to individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace—principles that together form libertarianism, also known as “classical liberalism,” “market liberalism,” or, to many of our international friends, simply “liberalism.” 

All Cato interns participate in the same intensive seminar series, which covers a wide range of history, philosophy, policy, and professional development topics. Interns also assist with events and occasionally support Cato staff with other daily tasks. 

Interns receive competitive pay. Part-time roles are adjusted accordingly and require a minimum of 25 hours per week. Program participants must be able to attend in person in Washington, DC.

For more information about the internship program and experience, we encourage you to explore our website. If you have any questions, email studentprograms@cato.org.