About the role
Internships
Senator Murray is seeking paid legislative and communications interns in our Washington, D.C. office, and constituent service interns in the Seattle office. This is a great opportunity for students to see the legislative process up-close, learn more about the federal government, and build strong ties to their communities. Interning in either Washington state or Washington, D.C. provides a unique opportunity to join a hardworking team that’s dedicated to serving the people of Washington state.
Application
The links below will take applicants to an online portal to fill out and submit an application. In addition to the online application, the following supporting materials are required:
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Three References
- Writing Sample: Washington, D.C. applicants can provide a general writing sample (500 words). Washington state applicants can choose between a general writing sample (500 words) or the below prompt.
- Constituent Services prompt: Pick an issue that you are passionate about and explain how it relates to the work of Senator Murray. (500 words max)
D.C. Office Application Communications
COVID-19 Guidelines
During this time, Senator Murray’s internship program is being conducted in person for those serving in the Washington, D.C. and Seattle offices. Applicants will need to relocate to the D.C. area for this internship.
Qualifications and Program Details
Students with strong ties to the state of Washington will be given preference in the application process. Interns should be interested in government and have excellent writing and research skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to complete tasks as assigned. Legislative and Constituent Service interns must be willing to work at a variety of activities, and have the ability to work independently and as part of a team. For communications interns, a communications, press, or journalism background is preferred.
In order to best accommodate all applicants, internship sessions are scheduled both on academic quarters and semesters (i.e., an intern could work either a semester or quarter internship, based on their academic institution’s credit system). Internships are available for school credit if approved by a college or university. We encourage Washington, D.C. interns—both legislative and communications—to work full time if possible (30 hours/week), though this is not a requirement.
Communications Internships
The Washington, D.C. communications internship is a great opportunity for those with a demonstrated interest in political communications, as well as an interest in public policy and a desire to learn. Excellent candidates will demonstrate strong attention to detail and time management, be self-motivated, and possess excellent written and oral communication skills. Writing and research experience preferred is preferred and policy issues will vary.
Contact Information
For questions and more information about internships in the Washington, D.C. office, please contact:
Kate Anderson, Intern Coordinator Office of Senator Patty Murray 154 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-2621 e-mail: dcinternship@murray.senate.gov
Application Deadline
*All applications close at 11:59PM PT*
| Quarter | Session Dates | Application Opens | Application Deadline | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Winter/Spring 2027 (DC) | January – April | 1st week of September | Sunday, November 1, 2026 | | Summer 2027 (DC and State) | June – August | Last week of January | Sunday, March 14, 2027 | | Fall 2027 (DC and State) | September – December | 1st week of May | Sunday, June 27, 2027 |