Common Defense hires Veteran Campaigner

The new hire will support foreign policy, racial justice, and organizing efforts ahead of the 2024 presidential election 

WASHINGTON — Common Defense, the progressive, grassroots veterans organization is growing and making big changes. Today, Common Defense announced the hiring of a veteran political operative to its political team. 

Oscar Arbulu, formerly of Rashida Tlaib’s campaign, is taking on a new role as the Deputy Political Director. Oscar Arbulu is a proud first generation American and native San Franciscan. Graduating from Archbishop Riordan College Preparatory in 1998, Oscar went on to enlist in the United States Marine Corps Reserves where he served as part of the 23rd Marines Regiment, 4th Division, as a logistics manager. After completing his service and being honorably discharged in 2006, Oscar moved on to the private sector in the entertainment industry and earned a degree in International Relations at Sacramento State University. 

In 2017, Oscar and his partner moved to Michigan and he joined Rashida Tlaib’s campaign for congress. Oscar continued to work for the Congresswoman in several capacities, most recently as her Campaign Manager in 2022. Oscar is now back in San Francisco and is married to his partner, Tianna, of 14 years. He enjoys participating in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, riding his motorcycle, and looks forward to welcoming a son in 2023. 

“Oscar has the skills and experience to help guide our movement through the challenges of the 118th Congress, and the next election cycle,” said Common Defense Political Director Naveed Shah. “Oscar’s years of experience, combined with his passion for racial, economic, and social justice and immigration policy make him an ideal candidate to lead our grassroots movement of progressive veterans.” 

The previous Deputy Political Director, Kyle Bibby has moved on to join Color of Change as a Senior Campaigns Director to focus more on racial justice work.