Building the Next Generation of Leaders on Capitol Hill
With Honor Institute’s (WHI) paid Congressional Fellowship Program is designed for mid-career professionals with an interest in Congress and national security. Fellows will be placed in the personal offices of Members of Congress for a one-year fellowship, which aims to strengthen congressional office capacity and promote cross-partisan cooperation through the placement of experienced, values-driven Fellows.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a full-time congressional staff member in a Congressional office.
- Conduct legislative research, track policy developments, assist in preparing briefings and memos, and brief the Member of Congress.
- Contribute to communications efforts by drafting press releases and preparing media appearances.
- Support constituent communications, including drafting responses and attending meetings.
- Attend fellowship training and events hosted by With Honor Institute.
Who Should Apply?
We’re seeking mid-career professionals who are:
- Minimum five years of professional experience
- Preferred national security background in U.S. Government, think tanks, industry, academia, etc., or interest in the following policy areas: armed services/defense, foreign affairs, veterans affairs, and national service.
- Military-affiliated or veterans strongly preferred
- Experienced in public policy, legislative affairs, public affairs, or public relations and communications
- Committed to bipartisan cooperation and values-based leadership
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degrees welcomed
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible to work in the U.S.
Willingness to relocate to D.C. for 13 months by December 1, 2025.
Why Apply?
By joining the With Honor Institute Congressional Fellowship Program, you will:
- Serve your country in a unique role, helping Members of Congress govern effectively.
- Gain an understanding of legislative processes, bipartisan negotiation, and communications strategy on Capitol Hill.
- Work in a high-impact environment where your expertise directly supports the development and advancement of meaningful policy solutions.
- Access an extraordinary network of national security leaders, veteran advocates, policy experts, and senior congressional staff who are shaping America’s future.
- Receive mentorship and guidance from seasoned professionals in the legislative, communications, and defense communities.
This fellowship isn’t just a job—it’s a stepping stone for leaders committed to bridging divides and strengthening democracy.
Program Structure
WHI’s Congressional Fellowship Program is a 13-month program that includes one month of training and 12 months of full-time work based in Washington, D.C.
Timeline
- December 1, 2025: Fellows report for their first training session in Washington, DC.
- December 3-10, 2025: Fellows participate in a premier Government Affairs orientation program for new Hill staffers, provided by a leading third-party training organization.
- December 12-23, 2025: Fellows participate in additional Congressional training led by With Honor’s team.
- January 5, 2026: Fellows’ first day in a Congressional office.
- December 31, 2026: Last day of the Congressional Fellowship Program.
Training & Support
Fellows will undergo formal training in December, including:
- A weeklong orientation in Washington, DC
- A two-week advanced legislative process course
- Professional development workshops with policy experts and Hill veterans
Placement
- Fellows are assigned to Members of Congress, with a strong preference for members of the bipartisan, veterans-led For Country Caucus (4CC).
Compensation
- Annual Salary: $80,000, starting December 1, 2025.
- Training: Tuition and fees for third-party training and coursework designed for new Hill staffers.
- Professional Growth: Exclusive access to WHI’s national network of leaders and post-fellowship alum support.
Applications for the 2026 Fellows are now closed. Applications for the 2027 Fellowship will open on September 1, 2026.
