Summary (tl;dr)

Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema is facing a lawsuit for "alienation of affection" in North Carolina, accused by Matthew Ammel's ex-wife of having a romantic relationship with Ammel, who served as her bodyguard and Senate staffer, allegedly leading to the dissolution of his marriage.

Essential Background

Kyrsten Sinema served as a U.S. Senator for Arizona, initially elected as a Democrat in 2018 before changing her affiliation to an independent in 2022. She did not seek re-election in 2024 and left office in January 2025, subsequently becoming a lobbyist for firms like Hogan Lovells. Matthew Ammel, a U.S. Army veteran, was hired as part of Sinema's security detail in April 2022 after retiring from the military. He later received a position as a national security fellow in her Senate office in June 2024, continuing his role as a bodyguard. North Carolina is one of the few states that allows "alienation of affection" lawsuits, which enable a spouse to sue a third party for wrongfully and maliciously interfering with a marriage, leading to its breakup.

The Full Story

A federal lawsuit was filed in North Carolina by Heather Ammel, the ex-wife of Matthew Ammel, alleging that former Senator Kyrsten Sinema engaged in an intentional and malicious interference with her 14-year marriage. The lawsuit claims Sinema pursued a romantic and sexual relationship with Matthew Ammel despite knowing he was married. Allegations include Sinema sending "romantic and lascivious" messages to Ammel, taking him to concerts such as U2 and Taylor Swift, buying him gifts like a Theragun, and suggesting he acquire MDMA for a "psychedelic experience" she could guide. The complaint details that Matthew Ammel stopped wearing his wedding ring to work and accompanied Sinema on various travels, including to Napa Valley, Las Vegas, and Saudi Arabia. Heather Ammel reportedly discovered these messages in early 2024, and the Ammels separated in November 2024 after Matthew returned from a trip with Sinema to Saudi Arabia. The lawsuit, which seeks damages of at least $75,000, was initially filed in Moore County Superior Court in September but was recently transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina. Sinema and her attorney have not yet responded to requests for comment.

Why It Matters

This lawsuit has drawn significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the controversial "alienation of affection" law under which it was filed. While once common, these laws are now rare, making this case particularly notable and potentially setting a precedent or reigniting debate about their continued relevance. The allegations could impact Sinema's public image and her new career as a lobbyist, especially given the explicit details presented in the complaint regarding her conduct while a sitting senator. For Matthew Ammel, the lawsuit highlights challenges with post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and traumatic brain injuries from his military service, with Sinema allegedly funding psychedelic treatments for him. The legal proceedings will determine potential financial liabilities for Sinema and could shed further light on the conduct of public officials.

Geographic Location

• Moore County, North Carolina, United States (original filing of alienation of affection lawsuit)
• U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, United States (lawsuit transferred)
• Washington, D.C., District of Columbia, United States (where Matthew Ammel worked for Sinema in her Senate office and as a bodyguard, and where Sinema served as Senator)
• Arizona, United States (Sinema's home state and where she served as Senator)
• Napa Valley, California, United States (location of alleged travel by Sinema and Ammel)
• Las Vegas, Nevada, United States (location of alleged travel by Sinema and Ammel)
• Saudi Arabia (location of alleged travel by Sinema and Ammel)