2026 Congressional Fellowship in U.S.–China Policy / Cato Institute

The Cato Institute invites Congressional workers to apply for the 2026 Congressional Fellowship in U.S.–China Policy, a nine-week skilled improvement program designed to deepen understanding of great-power competitors, U.S.–China relations, and ideas of realism and restraint in overseas coverage.

Open to staffers from any get together or ideological background, the fellowship offers a singular alternative to discover U.S.–China coverage by means of in-depth discussions with main consultants, guided readings, and collegial, off-the-record conversations.

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About the Fellowship

Participants will study important themes shaping U.S. technique and China’s world roles, together with:

• Grand technique and U.S. army posture

• Regional competitors and China’s actions overseas

• Chinese overseas coverage and its strategic logic

• U.S.–China commerce and financial relations

• Industrial coverage, maritime safety, and world financial traits

Weekly periods will mix lectures, discussions, and networking alternatives. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments shall be served.

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Key Details

• Duration: January 8 – March 5, 2026

• Session Time: Thursdays, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

  • Opening reception: January 8, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

  • Closing reception: March 5

• Location: Capitol Hill–adjoining restaurant

• Commitment: Participants should attend at the very least six of the 9 periods.

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How to Apply

Interested Congressional staffers are inspired to submit a assertion of curiosity by:

Deadline: Friday, December 12

Preference shall be given to early submissions.

For extra info click here

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Schedule Overview

January 8, 2026 – Opening Reception & A Realist Approach to Grand Strategy
January 15 – Regional Competition: China in the Middle East
January 22 – Global Force Posture for Great Power Competition
January 29 – Action–Reaction: Chinese Foreign Policy
February 5 – The China Shock Demystified
February 12 – China’s Economic Headwinds & the Future of U.S.–China Trade
February 19 – Strategic Vulnerability: The State of the U.S. Maritime Industry
February 26 – Industrial Policy
March 5 – Closing Reception

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About Cato’s Defense and Foreign Policy Approach

Cato’s overseas coverage emphasizes realism, restraint, and the idea that the United States—protected by geography, wealth, and alliances—is safe sufficient to keep away from army overreach. The Institute advocates for engagement, free commerce, and cooperation with out world army dominance, drawing on a practice stretching from George Washington to George Kennan.

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