Source: Fox News
Summary
A government claim alleges Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken repeatedly appeared intoxicated during city events, made racially derogatory remarks, and asked intrusive questions about sexuality. Berenice Ballinas, Aitken’s chief of staff, accused the mayor of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation based on her sexual orientation, heritage, and faith. The claim details incidents including Aitken arriving at a City Council meeting visibly impaired, making derogatory comments about Ballinas, and refusing to be driven by her. Aitken denied using the racial slur and said the allegations deserve investigation. The city is reviewing the claims, and Aitken is running for re-election.
Our Reading
As expected, the matter has reached another stage.
Aitken appears intoxicated at a meeting.
Ballinas drives her home in a city vehicle.
Aitken searches through belongings and takes photos.
She calls Ballinas a “dirty Mexican” and refuses to be driven by her.
Author: Evan Null
Allegations of Intoxication and Racial Remarks
Mayor Ashleigh Aitken is accused of appearing intoxicated during a City Council meeting in April 2025. Ballinas, her chief of staff, claims Aitken was visibly impaired by alcohol and later searched through a city vehicle’s belongings. The mayor is also accused of making racially derogatory remarks, including calling Ballinas a “dirty Mexican.”
Refusal to Be Driven by a Mexican
Ballinas alleges that Aitken refused to be driven home by her after believing the mayor was too intoxicated to drive. Aitken allegedly said she did not want “a Mexican” to drive her. The claim also states that Aitken denied using the racial slur attributed to her.
Incident at Disneyland
Aitken was allegedly too intoxicated to drive after a visit to Disneyland in May 2025. Ballinas offered to drive her, but Aitken refused. The mayor later fell in the street and was reportedly knocked over by a bicycle. Aitken’s husband allegedly told Ballinas, “Don’t we all?” when she expressed concern.
Questions About Sexuality
Aitken allegedly questioned Ballinas about her sexual orientation during a birthday lunch at Club 33 in June 2026. The mayor also asked a Disney cast member about his dating life. Disney later sent a letter to the Club 33 member whose membership was used, citing “rude, insensitive, and inappropriate remarks.”
Retaliation and Leave
Ballinas claims she was forced to take leave after reporting or opposing conduct she believed violated laws or workplace rules. The city is reviewing the allegations, and Aitken has pledged to participate in the process. She is currently seeking re-election as Anaheim mayor in the Nov. 3 election.
