Natasha Johnson

Natasha Johnson (born 1977/1978) is an American politician and businesswoman who has served in the California State Assembly from the 63rd district since September 2025, after winning a special election to replace Bill Essayli. She previously served on the city council of Lake Elsinore, California from 2012 to 2025, including three one-year terms as mayor.

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. She was first sworn in on December 4, 2012; she was also first appointed mayor pro tem several days later, on December 11, 2012. Johnson served as mayor for the city three times, and as mayor pro tem three times, both of which are merely titles which rotate among the entire membership of the council every year.

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 SB 54, which prevents state and local law enforcement agencies from using their resources on behalf of federal immigration enforcement agencies including ICE.

Her resignation from city council took effect on September 8, 2025.

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.

In June 2026, Johnson voted against AB-1921 (Protect Our Games Act); it passed 43-16.

Electoral history 2012

2016

2020

2024

2025

2026