Policy Associate

About the Job

Policy Associate
State Democracy Defenders Action, a 501(c)(4) organization

Full-time, Exempt, Remote (preference for DC)

Organizational Overview

State Democracy Defenders Action (SDDA) is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization dedicated to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy. SDDA also provides general administration for a group of related independent entities, including State Democracy Defenders Fund (c3), Democracy Defenders PAC, and Democracy Defenders Projects – the home for the new media entity, The Contrarian.

We were founded to counter the authoritarian threat to our democracy. State Democracy Defenders Action was founded in 2023 by Ambassador Norm Eisen (ret.), alongside other leading figures in democracy defense, elections, and law. SDDA launched The Contrarian, which is being led by Eisen and new Editor-in-Chief, Jen Rubin.

Role Summary

The Policy Associate/Senior Policy Associate will play a crucial role in our policy and advocacy team, focusing on developing policies to safeguard our democratic institutions and helping build and execute advocacy strategies to counter corrupt actors who undermine democracy.

This role includes working closely with the Policy Director and policy team, while occasionally collaborating with other teams—such as supporting SDDA’s impact litigation, ethics, and anti-corruption initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Support the team’s client and coalition work, including engagement with external partners such as nonprofits, coalitions, local and state officials, and consultants.
• Assist members of Congress in developing oversight strategies, preparing questions for hearings, and drafting statements for the record.
• Communicate complex policy ideas in clear and accessible terms for policymakers, the media, and the public.
• Produce high-quality written content, including policy reports, op-eds, summary documents, and rapid-response materials.
• Develop and implement advocacy campaigns to advance policy goals, including grassroots mobilization, lobbying, and public education.
• Support SDDA’s impact litigation and ethics initiatives as needed.
• Provide talking points and insights to support communications, fundraising, and other team members.
• Perform other tasks as needed.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
• A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in policy analysis, advocacy, legislative affairs, or a related field, with a focus on democratic institutions, governance, or anti-corruption.
• Proven ability to conduct in-depth research and analysis on complex policy issues.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Experience working with policymakers, the media, and the public.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and prioritize effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and build relationships with stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Discretion in handling sensitive information.
• Willingness to travel for organizational retreats, functions, and events.
• Preference for prior experience in social justice nonprofits, government, or on Capitol Hill.
• Demonstrated interest in safeguarding American democracy.

Location & Work Schedule

• Remote position (preference for Washington, D.C.)
• Optional in-person meetings take place semi-regularly in D.C.
• Some evening and weekend work expected.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $75,000 to $95,000
• Benefits include a generous PTO policy

Equal Opportunity Employer

State Democracy Defenders Action is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

To apply, send a resume and cover letter to [email protected] with your last name followed by Policy Associate in the subject line.