SACRAMENTO – Today, Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (Yuba City) is proud to highlight the diversity of the incoming Republican class. Among the new members is Assemblyman Bill Essayli, who is the son of Lebanese-American immigrants.  
 
“I want to welcome Bill Essayli as a new freshman member of the Republican Caucus,” said Leader Gallagher. “Besides his strong criminal justice background, he brings a unique perspective to the Republican Caucus as the first American Muslim to serve in the Assembly. I look forward to working with him on the important issues facing California.”

“I’m excited to get started to represent the people of the 63rd Assembly District,” said Assemblyman-elect Essayli. “As the proud son of Lebanese-American immigrants, I was taught the importance of hard work. Being raised with a strong work ethic has aided me throughout my law career and I’m ready to bring that same drive and focus to help solve the problems of California. This state has helped me realize the American Dream and I want to ensure that proud tradition continues.”  
 
Assemblyman-elect Bill Essayli is a former federal prosecutor and Riverside County Deputy District Attorney. He will be the first American Muslim to serve as a Member in California State Assembly.