News Reporting Intern

Democracy Fund; United States; On-site; USD 20,400 - 29,055; Part time

Job summary

A political advocacy organization in the United States is seeking a News Reporting Intern to write about the influence of money on politics and government. The intern will report, write breaking news, and produce in-depth pieces for a respected platform. Candidates should have strong writing skills, a curiosity about political topics, and the ability to quickly learn about campaign finance. Interns will earn D.C.’s minimum wage of $17.95 per hour and should submit a cover letter, résumé, and writing samples for application.

Qualifications

• Strong writing and reporting skills demonstrated through samples.
• Interest in campaign finance and politics.
• Ability to work independently on reporting assignments.

Responsibilities

• Report and write about money in electoral processes.
• Create breaking news items and in-depth articles.
• Interview lobbyists, politicians, and affected individuals.

Skills

Strong writing and reporting skills

Political knowledge

Curiosity

Ability to absorb knowledge quickly

Education

Undergraduate or graduate student

Job description

News Reporting Intern

See all current opportunities at OpenSecrets

As a news reporting intern, you'll report and write about how money in the electoral process influences politics and government. Intern responsibilities include writing breaking news items and longer in-depth pieces for OpenSecrets News.

You’ll write about various industries and special interests and how the money they pump into politics is designed to affect policy. You’ll talk to people affected by federal policy decisions, and to lobbyists, politicians, lawyers and other prominent Washingtonians, to get the scoop on where the money’s coming from, why — and where it’s going. You’ll get great editing from experienced, award‑winning journalists.

You’ll also write money‑in‑politics profiles of issues and industries that are permanently hosted on OpenSecrets’ highly regarded website, OpenSecrets.org.

Our reporting interns depart with numerous clips that demonstrate their strong writing skills and political savvy.

This job requires great curiosity and the willingness and ability to quickly absorb knowledge about the sometimes arcane subject of campaign finance. But you’ll immediately launch into reporting based on our original research, current events or a story pitch that you generate.

Qualified interns will demonstrate strong writing and reporting skills, political knowledge (or at least an interest in and ability to learn about politics) and an enthusiasm for doing the work that helps maintain a healthy democracy.

Interns who are not able to get school credit for their work with us will earn D.C.’s minimum wage of $17.95 per hour.

Undergraduates and graduate students are eligible, as are recent graduates who can commit to staying for the equivalent of one semester.

To apply, send a cover letter, résumé, 3-5 writing samples and three references to [e-mail]. Specify your interest in the "reporting internship."

Deadlines:
Fall: July 22
Spring: November 17
Summer: March 15