Political Intern

The internship will start on/around 6/3/2024 and end on/around 8/23/2024

 $18.55 per hour working 10 hours per week.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), the nation’s most effective animal advocacy organization, is seeking a Political Intern for its affiliate Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF).  As a Political Intern you will  learn about Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF)’s work passing animal protection laws at the federal and state level, gaining valuable political experience involving voter outreach; the surveying of candidates with HSLF’s candidate questionnaires; supporting humane candidates for office; and educating the public about animal protection issues.

You will be responsible for:

• Researching political candidates and races, including candidates’ legislative records and animal advocacy background;
• Helping coordinate the distribution of HSLF’s candidate questionnaires;
• Assisting with data compilation concerning political spending and activity;
• Drafting content such as letters to the editor and press lists, to support media relations and helping HSLF messaging reach the public;
• Helping plan and participating in state PAC fundraising;
• Aiding in conducting potential voter outreach in support of “humane candidates” at the state and federal level;
• Responding to member inquiries regarding the PAC and candidate relations work of HSLF, HSLF’s operations as a 501(c)(4), and other miscellaneous inquiries regarding animal welfare issues;
• Preparing an optional end-of-semester project involving creation of a political communications strategy for a targeted 2024 race.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Must meet one of the following:
• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student of an accredited college or university.
• High school or accredited college or university graduate who graduated within the last two years.
• Service member with an honorable discharge within two years of leaving the military
• No specific academic major is required; however, an academic background in political science, law, or public policy is helpful;
• Strong interest in animal protection issues.
• Strong interest in political research, as well as knowledge of government and politics.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Superior research skills and ability to read and understand academic material.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel; strong familiarity with the Internet and online research tools; and basic knowledge of social media.
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Basic knowledge of Humane Society Legislative Fund; ability to learn and demonstrate familiarity with HSLF’s major campaigns, positions, and mission.
• Flexibility and an eagerness to take initiative on a variety of projects.
• Ability to use discretion, keeping in mind the confidential nature of some aspects of the work.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain professionalism in attitude and appearance on the telephone and in person with staff, external offices we work with, and members of the public.
• Ability to work well independently and to use good judgment.

The internship is based in Washington, DC

When applying, please submit your cover letter and resume together as one document. 

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital or parental status or protected veteran status. EOE