Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken addressed allegations that she used a racial slur toward her chief of staff, Berenice Ballinas, and made inappropriate inquiries about Ballinas’ sexual orientation during a recent city council meeting. Aitken, a Democrat seeking reelection in November in the predominantly Latino city, acknowledged the seriousness of the claims but emphasized her limited ability to discuss the matter publicly. She urged the community to consider her track record and the initiatives she has supported, reiterating her statement in Spanish.
The allegations surfaced in a confidential letter sent to city officials on September 11th from Ballinas’ attorney, Lawrence Lennemann. According to the letter, Aitken used the racial slur “dirty Mexican” multiple times when Ballinas, who is Latina, drove the mayor home from city events where she had consumed alcohol. The letter also claimed that in June, Aitken questioned Ballinas about her perceived sexual orientation in front of others during a lunch and drinks at Club 33, a private venue within Disneyland and California Adventure.
In response to the allegations, Republican Councilmember Natalie Meeks called for a swift internal investigation, stating the need to address the accusations seriously and suggesting that if the claims are substantiated, the mayor should resign. Meanwhile, the three Latino councilmembers, all Democrats, have remained silent on the matter.
Anaheim spokesperson Mike Lyster confirmed that a review is underway but remains in the early stages. Aitken pledged to cooperate “readily and truthfully” with any investigative process related to the allegations.
The issue prompted several residents to voice concerns during the meeting. Some called for Aitken’s resignation, while others demanded a thorough investigation. Resident Penelope Lopez questioned how alleged racism and discrimination might have influenced the mayor’s decisions in office, highlighting the weight of words and accountability to the community.
Several outside voices also reacted, including members of Chispa, a Santa Ana-based Latino progressive nonprofit, which urged all Anaheim councilmembers to publicly condemn the alleged comments. The controversy has extended into a local state Assembly race, where Santa Ana Councilmember Jessie Lopez expressed support for Ballinas and called for an independent investigation, acknowledging the courage needed to speak out. Meanwhile, her opponent, Councilmember David Peñaloza, emphasized the importance of a fair third-party inquiry to establish the facts.
The Democratic Party of Orange County, which has endorsed Aitken’s reelection, also called for a “full, fair, and independent” investigation. Party Chair Florice Hoffman stated that if the allegations prove true, such behavior would be unacceptable and have no place in the party or public service.
Ballinas, according to her attorney’s letter, is currently on leave from City Hall for health-related reasons.