Spring 2026 Internship

At a time of growing industry uncertainty and an alarming erosion of civic discourse, The Dispatch stands out as a platform for thoughtful coverage, respectful dialogue, and a wildly engaged community of paying members. We bring a perspective—we’re conservatives, classical liberals, libertarians—but we’re fiercely independent, standing apart from media outlets increasingly engaged in partisan boosterism. Started in 2019 by Steve Hayes, the editor-in-chief of The Weekly Standard, and Jonah Goldberg, editor at National Review, The Dispatch has filled a valuable gap on the center-right in the media ecosystem as captured in articles in Vanity Fair, The Atlantic, and other publications.

The Dispatch is pleased to offer its spring internship program and is seeking one intern for a 10-week, part-time opportunity. A $3,000 stipend will be provided, unless the intern is receiving funding from their college or university or from another source, such as a foundation or fellowship. This is a hands-on internship that will provide invaluable experience for an aspiring journalist who wants to participate in the editorial process of a thriving media business. The intern will work closely with The Dispatch’s staff writers and editors to contribute to our website and newsletters. Preference will be given to applicants in the D.C. area who are able to work from our office, but we will consider exceptional candidates for a remote arrangement. We anticipate the program would begin February 23, 2026, and conclude May 1, 2026. The application deadline is January 16, 2026.

Responsibilities:
• Contribute to standalone articles for The Dispatch website, explainers, newsletters such as The Morning Dispatch, and fact checks.
• Interview key persons (witnesses, sources, etc.) to obtain pertinent information for reporting and explainers.
• Establish contacts and sources for use in future research and reporting.
• Assist with editorial projects.
• Keep abreast of news developments by studying papers, attending events, etc.
• Other duties that support the work of the editorial team.

Skills & Qualifications:
• Current enrollment in a related undergraduate or master’s degree program.
• Desire to pursue a career in journalism.
• Ability to work 20-25 hours per week while balancing academic coursework.
• Ability to meet strict deadlines and take direction, correction, and constructive feedback professionally.
• Familiarity with American politics, the news media ecosystem, and conservatism/classical liberalism.
• Well-read knowledge of today’s big stories.
• Computer proficiency (MS Office, Google Workspace, web search, databases).
• Excellent communication and critical thinking skills.