Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken acknowledged seeking treatment for alcohol
Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken announced publicly on Friday, Oct. 2, 2025, that she sought treatment for an unhealthy relationship with alcohol following the filing of a formal city claim by her chief of staff alleging workplace harassment and intoxication. The statement, posted to Aitken’s Instagram page, arrived just hours after members of the Anaheim City Council completed a closed-door session regarding the allegations.
The political crisis unfolded after Berenice Ballinas, Aitken’s chief of staff and right-hand aide, filed a claim on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2025, documenting months of alleged misconduct. According to documents supporting the City Council agenda, Ballinas asserted she suffered ongoing harassment, intrusive questioning about her Catholic faith, Mexican heritage, and perceived sexual orientation. The claim also alleges that Aitken participated in multiple public functions while intoxicated between October 2024 and June 2025, listing an April 2025 City Council meeting, a televised Disneyland 70th Anniversary appearance, and several civic luncheons.
Aitken acknowledged her struggle with alcohol in her Friday statement, revealing she checked into the Betty Ford Center in June 2025. “I realized I had an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, and needed help managing the stress and responsibilities in my life. I spent 30 days beginning a new journey of hope and recovery,” Aitken stated. She added that she suffered a setback at a birthday event this past June and resumed drinking before committing to sobriety once more.
While taking responsibility for her alcohol consumption, Aitken categorically rejected the discrimination and harassment claims outlined by her chief of staff. “Accepting responsibility for my alcohol consumption does not equate to the more serious allegations that have been made against me,” Aitken said. “I have denied the slurs attributed to me, and I stand by that denial.”
Anaheim Enlists Independent Investigator to Examine Allegations
Following a Friday morning closed-door discussion among Anaheim City Council members regarding the claim, officials reported no immediate formal actions. However, city spokesperson Mike Lyster confirmed that Anaheim has enlisted an independent investigator as of Thursday, Oct. 2, to examine the allegations thoroughly. City officials estimate the independent probe could take several months.
Several councilmembers voiced support for the ongoing investigation, with at least two members stating they would call for Aitken’s resignation if the accusations are confirmed. Aitken stated she welcomes the outside review and intends to cooperate fully. “Where I made mistakes, I will own them. As to other allegations, I trust the evidence will bear out the truth,” she said.
Police Association Suspends Endorsement During Aitken Reelection Campaign
The disclosure comes amid Aitken’s campaign for a second four-year term in the upcoming November election, where she faces two opposing challengers. The political impact was immediate, with the Anaheim Police Association announcing the suspension of its endorsement of Aitken following the news.
Reflecting on the timing and the public disclosure, Aitken expressed regret over not addressing the community sooner. “I had hoped to share this on my own terms, but life had different plans for me. I regret not believing that my Anaheim community would support me, and should have given people the chance to offer their wisdom and support,” Aitken said.
“I am not perfect. My recovery is not a straight line. I apologize to anyone burdened by my drinking, especially my family. They all deserved better from me. I vow to continue the journey and be a better leader for Anaheim,” Aitken concluded.