A lawsuit has been filed against former US Senator Kyrsten Sinema, alleging a romantic relationship with a member of her security detail. The suit, brought by the ex-wife of the bodyguard, claims this alleged affair led to the breakdown of her marriage and is seeking significant damages. This legal challenge has brought considerable attention to Sinema’s post-Senate career and personal life.
The core of the legal filing centers on claims made by Heather Ammel, who asserts that her marriage to Matthew Ammel was negatively impacted by Sinema’s alleged involvement. The lawsuit details a series of interactions and communications that Ammel claims demonstrate a romantic connection between Sinema and her husband.
What is alienation of affection? This is a legal claim that allows a spouse to sue a third party for intentionally causing the breakdown of their marriage. It is recognized in a limited number of states, including North Carolina where this lawsuit was initially filed, and seeks damages for the emotional and financial harm caused.
Matthew Ammel, the bodyguard in question, was reportedly employed by Sinema following his retirement from the Army. He then began accompanying the former senator on various trips, both domestic and international, including visits to Napa Valley, Las Vegas, and Saudi Arabia. These travels are cited within the legal documents as periods where the alleged relationship developed.
According to the lawsuit, Heather Ammel discovered what she described as “romantic and lascivious” messages exchanged between her husband and Kyrsten Sinema via the Signal app in early 2024. This discovery marked a turning point, with subsequent actions by her husband and Sinema further fueling Ammel’s suspicions and leading to the legal action.
The legal documents further claim that by the summer of 2024, Matthew Ammel had stopped wearing his wedding ring. Concurrently, Sinema reportedly appointed him as a national security fellow in her Senate office. He continued his role as a bodyguard for her campaign during this period, as outlined in the filing.
Adding another layer to the lawsuit, it is alleged that Kyrsten Sinema provided funding for psychedelic treatment for Matthew Ammel. This treatment was reportedly for Ammel’s struggles with post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and traumatic brain injuries sustained during his military deployments in Afghanistan and the Middle East.
Sinema and her legal representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the allegations. The lawsuit was initially filed discreetly in Moore County, North Carolina, but has since garnered widespread attention after being moved to federal court.
Kyrsten Sinema concluded her term as an independent senator for Arizona in January 2025, having chosen not to seek reelection. Her single term in the Senate was marked by significant political shifts, including her departure from the Democratic Party and her subsequent independent status, which led to alienation from some liberal factions.
Following her departure from Congress, Sinema has transitioned to a career in the private sector. She is now associated with the Washington-based legal and lobbying firm Hogan Lovells. Her work there reportedly involves lobbying efforts for areas such as data center development and research funding for the psychedelic drug ibogaine.
The legal action from Heather Ammel is currently unfolding, and the claims against Kyrsten Sinema are being closely watched as they progress through the federal court system.
