Why Work in a State Capitol Post-Election?

Whether you’re looking for permanent policy positions or holding yourself over until the next election, Republican Jobs highly recommends working in a State Capitol! Although not every state keeps staff year-round—some only hire “for session” while others hire year-round—it’s a great opportunity.

Here are 20 reasons why you should consider working in a State Capitol this November or January of 2025!:

• Faster career progression: It is a lot easier to become a Chief-of-Staff in most states in your 20s and 30s when you’re working in a State Capitol. While D.C. is crowded with 1000’s of people gunning for a handful of jobs, most state capitols are filled with opportunity, especially once you get past your entry-level job and into the network.
• Increased ability to make a difference: In state capitols, legislative staff have more ability to make an impact. I remember my first session in the Texas Capitol. After bill-filing deadline, a superintendent brought to my attention that 1% of high school seniors could not graduate due to a testing scheduling loophole during the beginning of COVID. We were able to gut a dead bill, work with legislative counsel, re-write it, and get it passed. As a legislative director that was session-only, I was able to make a real impact that affected thousands of Texans. Hundreds of stories like this exist in state capitols!
• Increased autonomy: Smaller teams allow operatives to lead initiatives and grow their legislative portfolio. Many tasks get a lot more hands-on than just answering constituent emails.
• Proximity to decision-makers: Regular, face-to-face interactions with legislators and local officials. Most legislators in state capitols know all the Capitol staff on a first-name basis. It’s a great opportunity!
• Hands-on policy development: State work offers the chance to shape legislation from inception to implementation—experience that few get at the federal level.
• Work-life balance: Often better than federal roles, allowing for a fulfilling personal life. Especially if you’re in a state that keeps full-time policy staff; when it’s slow, it’s slow. Some legislators don’t even meet all year.
• Easier path to elected office: Building a public profile at the state level opens doors. Many legislative staff eventually run for office and leverage their Capitol experience.
• Community visibility: State capitol roles allow for a more visible presence in the local community, helping you to establish a solid reputation and expand your network.
• Real-time impact: Policies and initiatives can directly affect local communities much faster than at the federal level. You’ll see the effects of your work in real-time.
• Cost of living: Lower cost of living than D.C., which means you can build a solid financial foundation without breaking the bank.
• Less bureaucratic: State governments can be more flexible and responsive to ideas. The red tape is often thinner, allowing you to act on good ideas quickly.
• State-level lobbying experience: Many state capitol offices are immediate door-openers to work for conservative think tanks and other lobbying organizations. Plus, you’ll build connections with influential local lobbyists.
• Specialized policy knowledge: At the state level, you get to work deeply on state-specific policy issues, which makes you an expert in areas that might go untouched in D.C.
• Mentorship opportunities: Many state officials take an active interest in developing young staffers, and they’ll give you firsthand insight into navigating a career in politics.
• Greater role diversity: You’ll handle a wide range of issues—anything from health to transportation—which is experience you’ll rarely get in a more siloed D.C. role.
• Experience with state budgets: Working on state budgets is an invaluable skill, and you’ll learn the budgeting ropes quickly in a state capitol role.
• More frequent elections: State elections cycle faster, meaning you’ll get more campaign experience and have more frequent opportunities to network with the party.
• Chance to move up within the state: State roles give you a quick path to senior positions, whether in the government, private sector, or even a statewide campaign.
• Flexibility for future D.C. moves: Legislative experience at the state level is highly valued in D.C., so you’ll be on solid ground if you ever decide to move to the federal level.
• Path to conservative influence: Many conservative movements originate in state capitols, and working at this level gives you the chance to be at the frontlines of policy changes and build relationships within the network.

If you’re interested in applying for these positions, please visit www.CareerFair.gop or click here to register for the December 5th legislative career fair. As of this writing, 17 states are represented with nearly 100 openings, including caucuses hiring for multiple offices. Of course, you can always send your resume into Republican Jobs to see if we have any other openings!