Trade Policy Internship - Spring 2027 - PAID

Company Overview: The American Action Forum (AAF) is a forward-looking, non-profit policy institute dedicated to keeping America strong, free, and prosperous. It seeks to promote common-sense, innovative, and solutions-based policies that will reform government, challenge outdated assumptions, and create a smaller, smarter government that will serve its citizens better. As a unique, fast-paced “action” tank, we use the modern tools of communications to deploy ideas; engage Americans in the debate over the boundaries of government policy, personal freedoms, and market incentives; and educate and challenge the media to explore these issues and shape the next generation of political leaders. Internship Summary As an intern in the trade policy issue area, you will report directly to Jacob Jensen, the AAF Trade Policy Analyst. Jacob’s research focuses on international trade, the economic impacts of tariff and non-tariff barriers on American businesses and consumers, and the intersection of trade and broader international economic policy. His specific areas of expertise include industrial policy, analysis of congressional bills impacting U.S. trade, and the rising economic power of the BRICS countries. Jacob’s work has been cited in media outlets including The Wallstreet Journal, BBC, NPR, The New York Times, and CNBC. His work has also been used as a source to fact check presidential campaigns on both the debate stage and on the campaign trail. Prior to joining AAF as an analyst, Jacob worked as an international economics intern and has prior experience at Lincoln Financial Group as an insurance claims analyst. He graduated from Wake Forest University in May 2024 with a B.S. in economics and minor in global trade as well as a B.S. in business enterprise management with a concentration in international business. A few examples of projects completed by previous interns in the Trade Policy Internship Program include: Researched, wrote, and edited trade policy primers Wrote blogs and op-eds about trade policy topics Compiled a trade research database Researched and wrote longer, in depth, papers