Institute of Politics

Overview of Organization:

State Rep. Kam Buckner’s office works on both legislation in Springfield and direct services for constituents in Chicago’s 26th District. His district office provides resources like constituent support, community event partnerships, and volunteer opportunities.

Internship Summary:

The office of State Representative Kambium “Kam” Buckner (D, 26th District) is seeking an ambitious, energetic, and politically savvy student to work as an intern in the Chicago District office. The intern will support various functions in and outside the day-to-day operations in the office. They will work closely with staff to support community events, research policy issues, and draft communications. The person the office is looking for will be flexible, willing to learn, a team player and can interact in a fast-paced environment. Interns will have the opportunity to attend meetings with State Representative Buckner or his staff, discuss research and participate in events. The goal is to provide the summer intern with real-world experience in public service, the knowledge of how a legislative office runs, and valuable professional skills.

Responsibilities:

• Administrative: Participate in data entry, manage additional outreach programs and office duties.
• Events: Plan and implement content and tabling of events.
• Legislative Research: Ability to research issues and write constituent and other office correspondence. Assist in the preparation of legislation and briefing the State Representative before debate.
• Social Media: Knowledge of social media outlets, for example; Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter and ability to create flyers and other handouts. Efficient at using a camera on a phone for photo and video content.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a higher education institution
• Intermediate to advanced skills with office software

About the Supervisor:

Eligibility:

• Undergraduate students
• Graduate students
• Domestic and international students

Location, Modality and Commute:

Start and End Date:

The Academic Year internships will take place according to the IOP’s timeline, with specific dates and weekly hours to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process:

• Onboarding: November – December 2025
• Intern Work Period: January – May 2026