Applications Now Open: Indiana Senate Republican Caucus Paid Internships

The Indiana Senate Republican Caucus is opening the door for students and recent graduates to gain a firsthand look at state government, announcing that applications are now being accepted for paid spring internships during the 2026 legislative session.

According to State Sen. Chris Garten of Charlestown, the program is designed to give young people direct experience at the Indiana Statehouse while earning academic credit, scholarships, and a stipend. Internships are offered across several offices, including communications, information technology, legal, legislative, page, and policy, giving students the chance to match their studies and skills with real-world legislative work.

Applicants must be at least sophomores in college, though recent graduates and those currently in graduate or law school are encouraged to apply. There is no restriction on major, and previous political or government experience is not required. Successful candidates are expected to show strong writing and communication abilities, a solid academic record, and the drive to handle the fast pace of a legislative session.

For interns, the experience begins with mandatory orientation in late December or early January. From there, they work full-time through the end of the General Assembly’s session in March 2026, based out of the Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis. Interns are paid $900 every two weeks for their work, and many also receive academic credit from their home institutions. In addition, they can apply for scholarships supported by Verizon Communications and the Senator David Ford Scholarship Funds.

Garten emphasized that the internship can be a springboard into a career. “Throughout my time in the Senate, I have seen firsthand how much these internships can shape a young person’s future,” he said. “Many former interns have gone on to successful careers, and I encourage anyone interested to apply for this great opportunity.”

Interns are placed in positions that mirror the work of full-time staff. Legislative interns assist senators directly, tracking bills, staffing committee hearings, and conducting policy research. Communications interns develop news releases, create social media strategies, and work with reporters. Legal interns draft motions, summarize committee reports, and help prepare the daily schedule for lawmakers. Information technology interns troubleshoot equipment, manage audiovisual needs, and assist with digital upgrades. Multimedia interns produce photography, video, and online content. The Page Program offers interns the chance to teach young Hoosiers about state history and introduce them to the legislative process.

The program has earned recognition for its impact. In 2014, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s INTERNnet program named the Indiana Senate Employer of the Year, citing the experience it provides to college students.

For those seeking to apply, the process is straightforward. Applications can be found online at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Intern, with additional information available on social media at @INternSenGOP. Candidates who want more details before submitting their materials can also request direct contact from the Senate internship team.

The internships run Monday through Friday, generally from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., though hours may extend depending on the legislative schedule. Interns gain not only professional development and networking opportunities, but also the chance to contribute meaningfully to the work of state government.

For Indiana students eager to take their education out of the classroom and into the real world, this program provides an opportunity to work at the very center of state policymaking. Applications for the 2026 spring internships are open now, and seats are limited.