24 DAILY NEWS – Los Angeles | Politics
Once a defense attorney for January 6 rioters, Bill Essayli is now prosecuting immigration protesters in Los Angeles on behalf of the Trump administration. The shift from defending insurrectionists to criminalizing anti-deportation demonstrators has ignited political outrage across California.
As Trump’s interim U.S. attorney in Los Angeles, Essayli has filed conspiracy charges against demonstrators, called in the National Guard, and even presided over the detention of U.S. Senator Alex Padilla — a move critics describe as political theater in service of far-right ideology.
Essayli Trump Alliance Under Fire
The rise of the Essayli Trump alliance began with Essayli’s 2022 election to the California Assembly, where he earned a MAGA following with hardline proposals and incendiary appearances on Fox News.
After only two terms and limited legislative success, Essayli was appointed in April as interim U.S. attorney, a role he now uses to aggressively prosecute those protesting Trump’s mass deportation campaign.
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“He’s not there for justice, he’s there for Trump,” said Jacob Daruvala, director of the Stop Essayli campaign.
From Defending Rioters to Jailing Protesters
Essayli previously defended Jan. 6 defendants, arguing that their actions were protected under the First Amendment. He claimed those who stormed the Capitol were engaging in political expression.
Now, in Los Angeles, the same man is charging community organizers and union leaders — like SEIU’s David Huerta and Alejandro Orellana — with federal crimes for confronting ICE raids and handing out face shields at protests.
“Why would a peaceful protester need a face shield?” Essayli asked on Fox 11.
Essayli’s Record: Targeting LGBTQ+ and Trans Youth
While in the state legislature, Essayli Trump-style politics focused heavily on anti-trans legislation. He authored bills requiring the outing of trans students to their parents and branded Democrats as “pedophile protectors” when they blocked one of his proposals.
“He’s an ideologue,” said Assembly Member Corey Jackson, who clashed with Essayli. “It’s not the law that guides him — it’s MAGA principles.”
Blue Slip Showdown: Can the Senate Stop Him?
Essayli’s interim term ends soon. If Trump nominates him permanently, his confirmation would require approval from Senators Padilla and Schiff, who can veto him using the Senate’s blue slip tradition.
“If either senator says no, it’s over,” explained law professor Carl Tobias.
Activists are pressuring Padilla and Schiff to block Essayli’s nomination. “Trump chose him precisely because he’s the most anti-California person possible,” said Daruvala.
Even if Essayli isn’t confirmed, insiders speculate he may still be rewarded within Trump’s Justice Department, much like other controversial appointees
