David Arouca serves as TCU’s National Legislative Director, under the direction of the Office of TCU’s National President. David’s role is to serve as our union’s chief advocate on Capitol Hill and across Washington DC.
Brother Arouca has a strong record of securing legislative and political victories for TCU members, including increasing and protecting funding for Amtrak, the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) and our commuter railroads. He’s led TCU’s legislative efforts on rail safety matters and helps push our members’ agenda before the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the Surface Transportation Board (STB) and various other federal agencies.
David began his career on Capitol Hill but quickly transitioned to fighting for working people as a Legislative Associate for the Communications Workers of America (CWA). David then worked in the AFL-CIO’s Political Department just prior to joining TCU’s Legislative Department in 2015. TCU National President Maratea promoted him to National Legislative Director in March, 2023.
A passion for railroads and railroading was instilled in David from an early age growing up with both parents working in the industry. “I’m truly honored to help do the work of protecting and promoting the lives and livelihoods of TCU members across the country,” said Arouca. “Our job as a union advocates in DC is to protect and defend our members, and fight for their future – and that’s exactly what we plan to do.”
David holds a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in U.S. History from Union College (NY). He currently resides in Washington, DC.