2026 Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship: Launch Your Political Journey

Running Start has opened applications for the 2026 Congressional Fellowship, a premier program designed to equip young women with the skills, connections, and hands-on political experience needed to succeed in public service. Supported by Walmart, this fellowship offers participants an exceptional opportunity to work directly with Members of Congress while developing core leadership and campaign skills.

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About the Fellowship

The Congressional Fellowship places young women as interns for a U.S. Senator or Representative, either in Washington, DC or in a District Office. Fellows gain firsthand insight into how Congress serves its constituents while growing their political networks and understanding the legislative process.

Participants join a politically inclusive and diverse cohort of emerging leaders and take part in high-level training, mentorship, and professional development throughout the program.

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What Fellows Will Experience

Work on Capitol Hill or in a District Office

• Intern directly for a U.S. Senator or House Representative.
• Observe constituent engagement, legislative processes, and daily operations of Congress.

In-Person Washington, DC Immersion

• Spend three intensive days on Capitol Hill.
• Meet political insiders, policy experts, and Congressional staff.
• Build a strong professional network in the capital.

Ongoing Leadership Development

• Join regular political leadership workshops.
• Learn alongside a tight-knit cohort from diverse backgrounds and ideologies.
• Practice real campaign strategy through a hands-on campaign simulation.

Financial Support

• Receive a $1,000 stipend.
• Enjoy an all-expenses-paid in-person training in Washington, DC.
• No program fees — zero out-of-pocket cost.

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Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for young women who:

• Are 18–25 years old
• Are interested in politics, public policy, or public service
• Want firsthand exposure to how Members of Congress serve their communities
• Are excited to grow with a diverse, bipartisan cohort
• Want to be mentored by political role models and build a career in public leadership
• May or may not already have a secured Congressional internship — both paths are welcome

No prior political experience is required.

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Application Requirements

Submit the following:

• 1-page PDF resume
• 1-page writing sample addressing:
  “What is an issue in your community you would like to solve? How would you implement your solution?”
• Information on your anticipated Congressional internship placement (if already secured)

A sample writing document is provided in the application materials.

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Program Timeline

Priority Round

• February 15 – Priority application deadline
• Late February – Priority interviews
• Early March – Priority acceptance notifications

Final Round

• March 15 – Final application deadline
• Late March – Final interviews and acceptances

Program Implementation

• March–August 2025 – Fellows seeking a Fall 2025 Congressional internship will be placed
• June–November 2026 – Virtual leadership training
• September 2026 (TBD) – In-person training in Washington, DC
• Late November 2026 – Fellowship concludes

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Tracks Available

Through the same application, candidates may apply to:

1. Congressional Fellowship – Intern with a Member of Congress
2. Running Start Fellowship – Work on a high-impact organizational project

Applicants may choose one or both tracks.

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How to Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the final deadline.

Apply here: 2026 Running Start Fellowship Application

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For more information: Click Here