Lake Elsinore Councilmember Bids For Bill Essayli's Assembly Seat

LAKE ELSINORE, CA — On the heels of President Trump's decision to tap Riverside County Assemblyman Bill Essayli for U.S. Attorney this week, a new contender for his seat has already stepped into the ring.

Lake Elsinore City Councilmember Natasha Johnson announced her candidacy on April 3.

"I will be a fearless advocate for our region and fight to restore common sense in Sacramento," she wrote on Instagram.

Essayli, a Republican who has represented the 63rd District since 2022, resigned from his post on Tuesday and is expected to begin his new role on Wednesday if it is confirmed by the Senate. As U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, Essayli will serve seven counties from Riverside to San Luis Obispo.

READ MORE: Trump Taps Assemblyman Bill Essayli For US Attorney, Central CA Role

“I’m running for State Assembly because California needs leaders who understand the struggles of everyday families, small business owners, and hard-working people,” she said in a news release, according to multiple reports.

Johnson, who is a small business owner and a mother, previously served as mayor of Lake Elsinore before joining its council in 2012.

Johnson has already received an endorsement from Essayli, who has represented Norco, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake as well as parts of Eastvale, Riverside and Corona.

"I've selected Natash because I know that she is a fighter and she will carry on my message and the battles that we've had in Sacramento whether that's on public safety or parental rights," Essayli said.

"What an honor to continue to serve and keep the charge going for Assemblyman Essayli," she said.

She has also received endorsements from Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who is running for governor in 2026.

Under state law, Gov. Gavin Newsom has a little less than two weeks to call for a special election to fill Essayli's post, which runs through next year.