Social Media Intern, Fall 2026

The Dispatch is a member-funded publication covering politics, policy, and culture. We are right-of-center and fiercely independent, scrutinizing our own side as readily as others. Founded in 2019 by Steve Hayes and Jonah Goldberg, we operate on the belief that readers will pay for quality journalism over outrage-driven media. Tens of thousands of members now fund our reporting directly, ensuring we answer to them rather than to traffic. We also own and operate SCOTUSblog, the definitive source for Supreme Court coverage for over 20 years.

About the role

This is a hands-on execution role on our social team. You will publish to real accounts with a real audience daily, executing our organic social strategy across X, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Reddit. Responsibilities include turning the day’s reporting into platform-native content, cutting clips from podcasts and videos, monitoring and replying to comments, and analyzing performance. You will integrate into our editorial workflows, including a standing seat on the weekly editorial call, to stay ahead of upcoming content. Political media moves fast, and we’re hiring for the instinct to recognize and act on moments quickly.

Responsibilities

• Publish daily across platforms: schedule and post articles, newsletters, podcasts, and videos to X, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Reddit.
• Create platform-native content: design quote cards, carousels, stories, and clips tailored to each platform rather than cross-posting.
• Cut clips: review podcast and video episodes, identify key moments, and produce them for social media.
• Own community engagement: monitor comments, DMs, and replies; surface audience questions and themes to the editorial team; and build our presence in relevant Reddit communities.
• Report weekly: track platform metrics, analyze performance, and share insights with the team.
• Bring ideas: propose 3–5 new format, platform, or content ideas each week for experimentation.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or a recent graduate.
• At least one year of experience running social media for an organization (e.g., club, campus publication, campaign, small business, or internship)—not just a personal account.
• Fluency in how each platform behaves, with a strong point of view on what performs well where.
• An eye for quotes, clips, or framing that will resonate with audiences.
• Understanding of The Dispatch’s role in the media ecosystem.
• Basic comfort with graphic design or video editing tools, or willingness to learn quickly.
• Genuine interest in politics and policy, with enough news literacy to recognize when a story matters.
• Comfort working independently and acting fast when news breaks.

Benefits

• Build a portfolio of work published on accounts with a real audience.
• Gain direct experience across five social platforms.
• Develop a deep understanding of how a subscription-based news business grows.
• Work directly with editors, reporters, and the growth team.
• Potential pipeline into a full-time role if performance is excellent.

Schedule

This is a paid, part-time internship running from September 8 through December 18, 2026, at 15 to 20 hours per week. Hours are flexible and can be scheduled around your classes or other commitments. The role is remote, with an optional office in Washington, D.C.