High molecular weight poly(imide-amides) can be readily formed by the palladium-mediated carbonylation and condensation reactions of diiodo imide monomers and aromatic diamines. Reaction conditions for polymerization are 100-120-degrees-C, 90 psig CO, 3-6 % PdCl2L2 (L = PPh3), and 2.4 equiv of DBU for 2-4 h in DMAc or NMP. This route offers the flexibility of incorporating different ratios of amide and imide groups in the polymer backbone in a controlled manner. The imide moiety is preformed, which eliminates the possibility of postpolymerization curing.