Anaheim Mayor Misconduct Claims

Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken Faces Harassment and Discrimination Claims From Chief of Staff

Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken has been accused of drunken behavior, racial slurs, and questioning questions about sexuality during city-related events. A 25-page government claim by Berenice Ballinas, who has worked in Aitaken's office since December 2022 as her chief of staff, alleges harassment, discrimination and retaliation based on her perceived sexual orientation, Mexican heritage, and Catholic faith. The claim also accuses the city of failing to adequately respond after concerns were raised. Ballinas alleges that Aitkens arrived at a City Council meeting in 2025 appearing "visibly impaired by alcohol," and that she ultimately drove Aitzen home in then-City Manager Jim Vanderpool's city vehicle. She also alleges that she witnessed Ait Ken become physically affectionate with another person during a team dinner. Aitden denies using the racial slur attributed to her and has pledged to participate in the investigation.

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