Anaheim Mayor Accused of Racial Slurs, Harassment by Chief of Staff

Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken is facing allegations of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation from her chief of staff, Berenice Ballinas. Ballinas filed a 25-page government claim asserting that Aitken exhibited drunken behavior at city events, made racially derogatory remarks, and asked intrusive questions about sexuality.

The claim also states that the city failed to adequately address concerns raised by Ballinas. According to the document, Ballinas has worked in Aitken's office since December 2022 and alleges the mistreatment was based on her perceived sexual orientation, Mexican heritage, and Catholic faith.

One alleged incident occurred in April 2025 during a City Council meeting, where Aitken reportedly appeared "visibly impaired by alcohol." Following a closed session, Ballinas claims she drove Aitken home. During the car ride, Aitken allegedly searched through the driver's personal belongings and took photos, prompting Ballinas to object due to the privacy of the information.

The claim further accuses Aitken of making multiple derogatory comments about Ballinas's Mexican heritage, including referring to her as a "dirty Mexican." In a separate incident at Disneyland in May 2025, Ballinas alleged that Aitken declined her offer to drive, stating she refused to have "a Mexican" drive her.

Aitken has denied using the racial slur attributed to her and has stated that the allegations warrant an investigation. In a Facebook statement, she said, "These allegations are extremely serious, and they deserve to be investigated. I did not use the racial slur attributed to me, and I have always been a champion of the LGBTQ community."

Ballinas also described alleged conduct during a team dinner where Aitken was described as becoming "physically affectionate" with another individual. When Aitken's husband reportedly removed her from the event, she later knocked over a bicycle, damaging its mirror, and subsequently fell in the street.

At Disneyland's Club 33 on June 10, 2026, Ballinas alleged that Aitken repeatedly questioned whether she was a lesbian while consuming alcohol. Later, at the 1901 Lounge, Aitken allegedly questioned a Disney cast member about his sexual orientation and dating life. Disney subsequently sent correspondence to the Club 33 member whose membership was used, noting that cast members reported "rude, insensitive, and inappropriate remarks."

Ballinas stated she was forced to take leave starting around July 31, alleging retaliation after she reported conduct she believed violated laws or workplace rules. Anaheim has confirmed a review of the allegations is underway, and Aitken has pledged her cooperation with the process. Aitken is currently seeking another term as mayor in the upcoming Nov. 3 election.