Anaheim mayor acknowledges alcohol problem, denies slur allegations

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken said Friday she checked herself into the Betty Ford Center in June 2025 for an alcohol problem, while denying more serious allegations raised in a claim by her chief of staff, Voice of OC reported.

The disclosure comes as Anaheim officials review Ballinas' claim and as Aitken seeks reelection next month against Dr. Imran Sharief and Alfredo Rodriguez.

Voice of OC reported that Aitken made the admission in an Instagram post Friday morning after Ballinas' claim accused the mayor of heavy drinking at government functions, using racist slurs, questioning Ballinas' sexuality and mocking her faith.

"About a year and a half ago, in June of 2025, I left a conference early to check myself into the Betty Ford Center. I realized I had an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, and needed help managing the stress and responsibilities in my life," Aitken, the Anaheim mayor, said in the post, according to Voice of OC.

Aitken denied the most serious allegations. "None of that excuses excessive alcohol consumption at conferences or locally. But accepting responsibility for my alcohol consumption does not equate to the more serious allegations that have been made against me. I have denied the slurs attributed to me, and I stand by that denial," Aitken said, according to Voice of OC.

Ballinas' claim alleges Aitken repeatedly asked about her sexual orientation during a June 10, 2026, birthday celebration at Disneyland's Club 33. The claim also alleges Aitken questioned a Disney Cast Member about their sexuality at the 1901 Lounge in Disney California Adventure. "During lunch, the Mayor began consuming alcoholic beverages. Again, the Mayor repeatedly questioned Claimant concerning her sexual orientation," the claim says, according to Voice of OC.

Anaheim officials met in closed session Friday and reported taking no reportable action on the claim, Voice of OC reported. Resident Stephanie Mercadante said at Friday's meeting, "Where was the investigation when Berenice was asking city leadership for help?"

Councilman Carlos Leon said the allegations require a fair review. "I believe in due process for everyone involved and allowing the facts to guide any conclusions," Leon said in a Friday Instagram post, according to Voice of OC. "An independent investigator has now been retained to review the allegations and establish the facts," he said.

City spokesman Mike Lyster said an independent investigation is expected to take place over the next few months, Voice of OC reported. Voice of OC also noted that Aitken's father, Wylie Aitken, chairs its board of directors.