Spring 2027 FDD Action Advocacy Internship
Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD)
About the Role
FDD Action is seeking full-time and part-time advocacy interns for the Spring 2027 term. This internship offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of research, strategy, and legislative action, embedded in congressional projects.
About FDD Action
FDD Action is a 501(c)(4) advocacy organization focused on advancing U.S. foreign policy to strengthen national security, counter adversaries, and support allies. They provide Congress with actionable insights and legislative solutions through processes like the NDAA and appropriations. Expertise includes sanctions, counterterrorism, arms sales, combating antisemitism, and addressing foreign influence.
Issue Areas
- Iran and Israel
- Russia and Ukraine
- China
- Sanctions and export controls
- Defense policy
- Countering foreign malign influence and activities
Internship Focus
Interns will contribute to FDD Action's efforts to shape policies developed in Congress. The role involves developing practical communications and messaging skills, sharpening writing, editing, and strategic communication abilities, and gaining insights into communicating complex policy objectives to policymakers and stakeholders. The organization provides dedicated mentorship and career guidance through educational sessions with experts.
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to FDD Action's NatSec Roundup, a weekly publication for congressional staffers, learning about legislative processes and national security.
- Support the advocacy team in producing Action Alerts and Policy Alerts for endorsed legislation, letters, and policies.
- Craft social media content to advance FDD Action's policy priorities.
- Monitor and track important national security developments and breaking events.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Minimum 22 hours per week commitment.
- Microsoft Office programs, including Word.
- Basic Excel skills.
- Eligibility to work in the United States.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
- Relevant course of study with completed coursework in one or more of the following fields:
- International Relations
- Security Studies
- History
- Communications
- Journalism
- International Economics
- Political Science
- Detail-oriented self-starters with strong research skills.
- Genuine interest in the intersection of policy and communications.
- Prior Hill experience is a plus, but not required.
Application Materials Required
- Resume/CV
- Cover letter (include which FDD Action projects and issue areas resonate, why, where the internship was found, and availability)
- Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)
- Unofficial transcript copy
If applying for the policy internship as well, indicate primary preference in the cover letter.
The organization offers stipends and assistance for academic credit; stipend eligibility requirements must be met.
Applications are considered on a rolling basis; early submission is recommended.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.