Political Research Intern
Political Research & Community Outreach Intern
About This Opportunity
Arnyce Foster-Hernandez — former Parks Commissioner, Manhattan Community Board 10 member, and small business owner in Central Harlem — is preparing for a 2028 run for elected office. This internship is your front-row seat to building a grassroots political campaign from the ground up. You will work directly with Arnyce to research the political landscape, build community relationships, and get her in front of the audiences, influencers, and journalists that matter.
What You'll Be Doing
- Research NYC district-level political landscape, incumbent voting records, and community issues most relevant to Central Harlem and Manhattan Community Board 10
- Build and maintain a contact database of community influencers, faith leaders, block association presidents, journalists, and elected officials' staff
- Identify and pitch speaking engagements, panel opportunities, podcast appearances, and community event invitations that align with Arnyce's platform
- Coordinate 1:1 meetings and coffee introductions with key stakeholders across NYC civic and political circles
- Monitor local press coverage — Amsterdam News, Gothamist, City Limits, Harlem World — for opportunities to insert Arnyce's voice into the conversation
- Research comparable political candidates who won similar races; identify early campaign strategies that worked
- Draft briefing documents and talking point summaries so Arnyce walks into every room prepared
- Assist with outreach to journalists for profile opportunities and op-ed placements
What We're Looking For
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in Political Science, Public Policy, Urban Studies, Communications, or related field
- Strong research skills — comfortable with tools like Ballotpedia, OpenSecrets, NYC Council data portals, and general database research
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; you will be emailing journalists and community leaders on behalf of Arnyce
- Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive — you follow up without being asked
- Genuine interest in NYC politics, community organizing, or public service
- Bonus: existing network in NYC civic, nonprofit, or political circles
- Bonus: familiarity with Harlem or Upper Manhattan communities
Why This Internship Stands Out
You won't be making coffee. You'll be helping to build a political brand from scratch — researching strategy, managing outreach, and directly supporting a community leader with over 30 years of public sector experience. This is a resume-builder that opens doors in NYC politics, nonprofit leadership, and civic engagement.