The Anaheim Police Association Political Action Committee has announced the suspension of its endorsement for Mayor Ashleigh Aitken's re-election campaign. This move comes in response to recent allegations claiming the mayor used a racist slur and repeatedly questioned her chief of staff's sexual orientation.
In a news release issued Tuesday, the committee stated that its board voted to suspend the endorsement for the mayoral seat. Cesar Aguilar, chair of the Anaheim Police Association Political Action Committee, emphasized the importance of due process, stating that the mayor is entitled to a fair investigation before conclusions are reached.
Aguilar was quoted in the September 29 news release, explaining, “Our endorsement carries significant responsibility. If allegations of this nature had been pending when Mayor Aitken sought our endorsement, we would have likely waited for the investigation to be completed before making a decision. Suspending our endorsement now is consistent with that approach.” He added that when serious allegations of discrimination or inappropriate conduct are raised, it is appropriate to step back from an endorsement while facts are being established.
The association, which represents 400 police officers, has asked Mayor Aitken to remove their endorsement from her campaign website until the allegations are investigated. Mayor Aitken responded to the PAC's decision in a text message Tuesday afternoon, expressing disappointment but affirming her "unwavering support for our officers and our chief."
Last week, Aitken publicly denied the allegations in a social media post, stating she is limited in how she can respond. She wrote, “These allegations are extremely serious, and they deserve to be investigated. I did not use the racial slur attributed to me, and I have always been a champion of the LGBTQ community.” She also confirmed her willingness to comply with an investigation into the allegations, which was called for by Council colleague Natalie Meeks.
The allegations stem from a confidential mediation letter sent to the city on behalf of Berenice Ballinas, Aitken’s chief of staff, detailing alleged harassment by Aitken and former City Manager Jim Vanderpool. The city has not yet publicly released this letter. Anaheim officials are expected to hold their regular City Council meeting Tuesday at 5 p.m., with a protest anticipated outside City Hall at 3:30 p.m.
The Political Action Committee has made significant contributions this year, including nearly $50,000 to a committee supporting Councilwoman Natalie Rubalcava’s re-election and over $2,500 in individual contributions to Aitken’s campaign. Despite the PAC's decision, Aitken retains the endorsement of the Democratic Party of Orange County.
Florice Hoffman, Chair of the Democratic Party of OC, stated that the party is taking the allegations seriously and supports a fair and independent investigation. In a Monday text message, Hoffman said, “If substantiated, the reported remarks and conduct would be inexcusable. Racist, denigrating, or otherwise offensive treatment has no place in our party or in public service. Elected officials must be accountable to their staff and the people they serve.” Hoffman emphasized that every public employee deserves dignity and respect, regardless of background, and expressed solidarity with marginalized groups.
Mayor Aitken is seeking re-election in approximately one month against two challengers: Dr. Imran Sharief, a physician, and Alfredo Rodriguez, a general manager of an environmental services company. Anaheim is a city where 53% of residents are Latino.
