Natasha Johnson


Natasha Johnson is an American politician and businesswoman who has served in the California State Assembly from the 63rd district since September 2025, after winning a List of [special elections to the California State Assembly|special election] to replace Bill Essayli. She previously served on the city council of Lake Elsinore, California, including three terms as mayor, from 2012 to 2025.

Career

Johnson previously worked in personal finance and most recently in a marketing role for Navy Federal Credit Union.

Lake Elsinore City Council

Johnson was first elected to the Lake Elsinore city council in 2012. Johnson served as mayor for the city three times, and as mayor pro tem three times.
In 2018, she served her second term as mayor, having been selected by fellow councilmembers. She again served as mayor in 2023. In 2018, she voted unanimously with the city council to express the city's opposition to California [Senate Bill 54 |SB 54], which prevents state and local law enforcement agencies from using their resources on behalf of federal immigration enforcement agencies including ICE.

California State Assembly

Following incumbent Republican Bill Essayli's resignation from the California State Assembly, Johnson announced her campaign for the special election to fill his term. Essayli endorsed her the day after resigning. She advanced from the blanket primary to a run-off against Democratic candidate Chris Shoults. She declared victory over Shoults on election night and was sworn in on September 8, 2025.

Electoral history