DOGE-targeted think tank restarts fellowships

By Robin Bravender | 02/02/2026 04:14 PM EST

The Wilson Center announced that it’s relaunching programs for congressional staff. 

Federal Triangle buildings seen from above.

Federal Triangle buildings, including EPA headquarters (bottom left) and the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, which houses the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars (top right), are seen from the Old Post Office Tower's observation deck July 7, 2022, in Washington. Patrick Semansky/AP

The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars is bringing back a fellowship program for congressional staff, the think tank announced Monday.

The Washington think tank is charting a new course in the Trump era after the administration and its so-called Department of Government Efficiency targeted the federally funded center for downsizing early last year.

The Wilson Center is accepting applications for a spring 2026 session of its six-week, nonpartisan fellowship program for congressional staff, the center announced.

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“Starting 2026 by re-launching our highly successful Congressional Fellowship Program is a significant step in continuing our mission to serve as a trusted, fiercely nonpartisan bridge between scholarship and public policy,” said Natasha Jacome, the Wilson Center’s president and CEO.

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