About the role#
The POLITICO Fellows program is a 12-month opportunity for early-career journalists to train in the fundamentals of covering politics, policy, and power. Fellows gain hands-on newsroom experience while working alongside reporters and editors. Upon successful completion of the program, fellows are considered for open positions within the POLITICO newsroom.
What you'll do#
- Report and write stories for POLITICO audiences, ranging from breaking news to policy explainers.
- Rotate through editorial teams covering the White House, Congress, federal agencies, and state capitals.
- Investigate policy debates that drive decision-making in Washington.
- Pitch original story ideas and build a network of sources.
- Participate in regular training sessions and receive one-on-one mentorship from staff.
What you'll need#
- At least two years of paid newsroom or professional journalism experience.
- Strong writing and analytical skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- A desire to learn and grow within a news organization focused on the intersection of politics and policy.
- Academic background in Journalism, Communications, Political Science, or English is relevant to this role.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, paid position based at our headquarters in Arlington, Virginia.
- The role is on-site.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of December 18, 2026, at 5pm EST.
- Total compensation is $63,700 plus benefits.
About POLITICO
POLITICO is a media organization focused on politics and policy. Founded in 2007, the company provides news, analysis, and subscription services for professionals in government and business. It operates with a team of over 1,100 people across several global capitals, including Washington, Brussels, and London. The company is a subsidiary of Axel Springer SE and maintains its headquarters in Arlington, Virginia.
How to get in at POLITICO
Applying early is a distinct advantage at POLITICO because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you get your materials in before the pile grows. This timing often matters more than you might think when competitive roles open up. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the people actually hiring for these positions. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind POLITICO roles, allowing you to connect directly to ask about the team or a potential referral. A brief, professional inquiry to the right person is often more effective than waiting for a response from a general portal.
