Internship Descriptions
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.