The 2025 NZUS Council Congressional Internship Programme is well underway.
Our five congressional interns have completed three of their nine weeks working on the Hill. They have settled into their accommodation close to Congress and the Supreme Court and history seems to shine from every corner. On arrival in Washington, D.C. they encountered a city starting to recover from the longest government shutdown in history and a challenging economic climate. The city was resplendent in fall leaves on their arrival, although more wintry conditions now prevail. During their first week they celebrated Thanksgiving, commenced their internships and/or spent some time with the team at the New Zealand Embassy in Washington DC.
Amongst their first impressions of the city, the interns noted there is a dramatic theatre to the Hill, even in the quietest moments. Huge edifices of marble exude power, class and grandeur. The Capitol, most particularly, draws the eye and has served as a reminder to the interns of the immense privilege and responsibility that comes with playing the political game in this complicated town.
We are grateful to the Members of Congress who are hosting our interns: Sophie Newton in the office of Rep. Tom Cole (OK-04), Ruby Gane in the office of Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02), Matteo Zhang in the office of Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Lauren Matthews in the office of Rep. Jim Clyburn (SC-06) and Ben Shea in the office of Rep. Ami Bera (CA-06).
We wish them well for the remainder of their time in the USA and look forward to meeting with them in the New Year to reflect on their experiences.
Read more about the internship here.
The 2025/26 interns with Council Executive Director Fiona Cooper prior to their departure at the end of November 2025.