Former Senator Kyrsten Sinema’s Relationship Sparks Legal Case

Former Arizona Senator Kyrsten Sinema has clarified her relationship with a previous member of her security team in court documents related to an “alienation of affection” lawsuit. This case was initiated by her former bodyguard’s ex-wife, Heather Ammel, who claims Sinema played a role in ending her 14-year marriage to Matthew Ammel.

The lawsuit was filed under a unique North Carolina statute that permits a wronged spouse to sue a third party for allegedly destroying a marital relationship. Sinema’s declarations in the case, first noted by The Arizona Republic, confirmed her relationship with Matthew Ammel, which began in 2024 when she was still serving as a senator.

The documentation details their relationship with activities and communications that spanned multiple states, such as California, Arizona, New York, and Washington, D.C. The Associated Press reported in January that Heather Ammel seeks at least $75,000 in damages from Sinema.

Sinema ranks as one of the most watched figures due to her shift from Democrat to Independent, serving Arizona from 2019 to early 2025, and being known for her moderate stance.

Recent testimonies revealed the nature of the relationship. In a July 31 deposition, Sinema described a romantic and sexual relationship beginning in May 2024. According to court records cited by Fox News, the Ammels separated on November 1, 2024, and finalized their divorce by March 2026.

Sinema admitted the relationship had turned romantic, with phone calls, emails, and encrypted messages during her congressional tenure. A deposition transcript shared by The Arizona Republic quoted Sinema discussing an encounter at an Airbnb in Napa, California, where intimacy occurred.

During her deposition, Sinema addressed text messages sent to Matthew, including a towel photo, which she claimed related to sports and demonstrated cupping marks from athletic activities. Court records indicate that Sinema acknowledged her relationship with Ammel despite his marital status and remarked that it transpired outside North Carolina, the state where the lawsuit was filed.

The case hinges on whether North Carolina can legally process the case against Sinema. Both parties submitted briefs and other evidence on August 12. Sinema also plans to present witnesses concerning jurisdiction.

U.S. District Judge David A. Bragdon will assess the new filings to determine the case’s viability in North Carolina or if Sinema’s dismissal motion should be granted. If the lawsuit proceeds, it will move to further discovery and possibly a trial regarding Heather Ammel’s claims.