RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema has publicly acknowledged a romantic relationship with Matthew Ammel, who served as her bodyguard. Legal documents reveal that the relationship began while she was in office, amidst a tumultuous marriage between Ammel and his ex-wife, Heather Ammel.
Heather Ammel has filed a lawsuit against Sinema, claiming that Sinema's interference led to the collapse of her marriage, which was previously described as ‘good and loving’ before Sinema became involved. The lawsuit seeks financial compensation, asserting that Sinema’s pursuit of Matthew occurred despite knowing he was married.
In a declaration submitted to the court, Sinema detailed that her relationship with Matthew Ammel became romantic in May 2024, escalating to physical intimacy across various states including California and New York over the ensuing months. The Ammels reportedly separated in November 2024.
North Carolina law permits spouses to sue for ‘alienation of affection’ if a third party is found to be responsible for the marriage's dissolution. Sinema’s legal team argues that her actions cannot be construed as having a direct impact on the marriage, emphasizing that their relationship only formed after the Ammels’ marriage was effectively over.
According to the lawsuit, Heather Ammel became aware of the relationship when she discovered romantic messages on the Signal app in early 2024. The case, initially filed in state court, has moved to federal court and is set for further proceedings.
Sinema, who opted not to seek re-election in 2024, transitioned to a new role within a legal and lobbying firm in Washington D.C. following her independent tenure in the Senate.
