American Conservatism and Governing Fellowship

Careers The Manhattan Institute (MI) is a community of scholars, journalists, activists, and civic leaders who are united by a shared commitment to advancing economic opportunity, individual liberty, and the rule of law in America and its great cities. We are always looking for entrepreneurial, self-driven, resourceful, and detail-oriented employees to help put MI's work in the hands of key policymakers and others. You can sign up to receive  our newsletters  as well as email  updates about posted jobs . Fellowship Overview  The American Conservatism and Governing Fellowship  brings together cohorts of successful mid-career public-service professionals to study the foundational principles of American conservatism. The fellowship will help leaders deepen their thinking about conservatism in America and its application to the work of governing. Regardless of their location on the political spectrum (there is no political litmus test for participation), fellows will benefit from this exploration of principles and policy. When a mayor, governor, legislator, cabinet secretary, or president is looking for talented, ethical, experienced public-service professionals who are knowledgeable about American conservatism and can be entrusted with governing responsibility, they will look to alumni of this fellowship.  Though much attention has been paid in recent years to populism, nationalism, liberalism, and even the policies of other nations, the principles of American conservatism remain an indispensable guide for those engaging in the public’s business. These principles are suited to America’s history and character, they have contributed mightily to our nation’s success, and they can help us solve today’s most pressing challenges. But those engaged in the difficult day-to-day work of public leadership—especially when they are inundated with toxic commentary about the latest political spat—can lose sight of these principles. That is, the burdens associated with actually governing and the distorted picture of America painted by social media can make it difficult to reflect on conservative principles and decide how they can best be applied to real-world problems. This fellowship brings together cohorts of approximately 15 individuals from across America to read and discuss the ideas behind the seminal texts of American conservatism. Each cohort convenes in person twice over the course of a year for four days of text-based seminars and related events. Participants will explore, among other topics, why classical republicanism—and its focus on self-governing citizens, civic virtue, the common good, and a limited state—was essential to our founding; why American conservatives are dedicated to preserving the Constitution, including federalism, separation of powers, ordered liberty, and equal protection; why conservatives aim to strengthen individuals, families, communities, and civil society; why conservatives rely on voluntary associations and small-scale democracy instead of a presumptuous national government and an expansive administrative state; and why conservatives generally prefer practical wisdom and tradition to technocracy. Unlike similar programs, this fellowship is designed, first and foremost, for those committed to a life of public service, primarily those who will spend some portion of their careers working for local, state, and/or the federal government. The seminars include sessions moderated by individuals with governing experience, and all sessions will aim to explore the application of conservative principles to the work of governing. Applicants need not currently work for a government entity; the fellowship is open to those serving in a variety of public leadership and policy roles, including in the fields of advocacy, research, and philanthropy. But aspiring fellows should be committed to a career of public service, including inside-the-government work. Also, the fellowship is open to those focused on any level of government, but we will give particular attention to those interested in close-to-home service (e.g. at the state, local, and community levels). Lastly, applicants need not identify as political conservatives. Those with other views are welcome; the fellowship prizes free and rigorous discussion of the texts. The only requirement is that applicants must want to learn more about American conservatism. This program is premised on the belief that the principles of American conservatism add enormously to American governing and help explain many characteristics of American society. An appreciation for conservatism’s principles can deepen public servants’ knowledge, strengthen American institutions, improve policymaking, and enable leaders to better understand the views of others engaged in the political process.  Background This type of professional development opportunity—focused on ideas, policy, and fellowship among public-minded professionals—is needed in our unusual political moment. Current American policy conversations have become simultaneously toxic and exhausted. Our political parties are polarized, serious debates are often conducted in soundbites on cable news, and the public square is increasingly uncivil. Tragically, too many public officials behave in unethical ways, undermining America’s system of virtuous self-government. At the same time, fresh, workable solutions to today’s most pressing problems are in short supply. In total, then, we have a reduced capacity to do the public’s work.  This is especially troubling because this era demands energetic, creative, principled, civil leaders. Substantial changes in the economy, demographics, and culture are causing new challenges, destabilizing old orthodoxies, and possibly leading to political realignments. Now is the time to consciously invest in the next wave of public-service leaders.  This fellowship’s emphasis on first principles of governing is designed to inform, challenge, in