Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken has issued a direct denial of allegations that she used a racial slur against her chief of staff, Berenice Ballinas, and questioned her sexuality. The controversy centers on claims made in a mediation letter from Ballinas's attorney.
Aitken, a Democrat, stated on Facebook that the allegations are "extremely serious" but unequivocally denied using the racial slur attributed to her. She also asserted that she has always been a supporter of the LGBTQ community. The mayor previously had limited public comment due to the ongoing personnel matter.
"I did not use the racial slur attributed to me, and I have always been a champion of the LGBTQ community," Aitken said in her statement. She added that she would not violate Ballinas's privacy, especially given her recent medical issues, to defend herself in the press. Aitken welcomed an investigation, expressing confidence that the facts would clarify the situation.
The allegations, detailed in a September 11 mediation letter from employment attorney Lawrence Lennemann to Anaheim City Attorney Robert Fabela, claim Aitken made the slur while Ballinas was driving her home. Ballinas, who has worked with Aitken since 2022, reportedly heard Aitken exclaim, "I do not want her car driven by a dirty Mexican."
Beyond the alleged racial slur, the letter accuses Aitken of repeatedly questioning Ballinas's sexuality and making comments about ethnicity and sexual orientation. One incident cited occurred in June during a visit to Disneyland's exclusive Club 33 and the 1901 Lounge.
According to the letter, Aitken allegedly questioned Ballinas's sexuality in front of others and discussed a Disney employee's sexual orientation and ethnicity. Reports suggest that several Disney employees complained about the mayor's conduct, and a third party's Club 33 membership was reportedly suspended.
Councilwoman Natalie Meeks has called for an investigation into the matter. City spokesman Mike Lyster confirmed an investigation is underway but did not provide details on its scope, leadership, or timeline, stating that the city aims to respect the privacy of all involved.
The allegations surface less than a month before Aitken's reelection campaign. She faces challenges from Dr. Imran Sharief and Alfredo Rodriguez. Aitken has also faced public criticism, with some residents and activists calling for her resignation during a recent City Council meeting.