Former Sen. Sinema Admits Affair with Bodyguard as Ex-Wife Seeks Damages

Sinema says relationship with Matthew Ammel 'became romantic and intimate' in 2024, but argues North Carolina court lacks jurisdiction.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:27pm

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Former Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema admitted to an affair with her former bodyguard, Matthew Ammel, in a motion filed to dismiss a lawsuit by Ammel's ex-wife, Heather Ammel. Heather sued Sinema in North Carolina under the state's alienation of affection law, accusing Sinema of 'willfully and intentionally' seducing her husband despite knowing he was married. Sinema argues the court lacks jurisdiction since she and Matthew were never physically intimate in North Carolina.

Why it matters

This case highlights the potential legal consequences for public figures engaging in extramarital affairs, as well as the complexities around jurisdiction and state laws regarding alienation of affection. It also raises questions about the ethical boundaries between elected officials and their staff.

The details

In a sworn declaration, Sinema said her relationship with Matthew Ammel 'became romantic and intimate' in 2024, with the two being physically intimate in several locations including California, New York, Washington D.C., Colorado, and Arizona. However, Sinema argues the North Carolina court lacks personal jurisdiction since she and Matthew were never intimate in that state. Sinema's motion also disputes Heather's claims that their communications occurred while Matthew was in North Carolina, stating all calls and emails were made while he was traveling outside the state.

  • On May 27, 2024, Sinema and Matthew Ammel were physically intimate for the first time in Sonoma, CA.
  • In mid-June 2024, Sinema and Matthew Ammel were physically intimate in New York City, NY.
  • In mid-July 2024, Sinema and Matthew Ammel were physically intimate in Washington, DC.
  • In late-August 2024, Sinema and Matthew Ammel were physically intimate in Aspen, CO.
  • In late-September 2024, Sinema and Matthew Ammel were physically intimate in Washington, DC.

The players

Kyrsten Sinema

Former independent U.S. Senator who represented Arizona for six years.

Matthew Ammel

Former bodyguard for Sinema, with whom she admitted to having an affair.

Heather Ammel

Matthew Ammel's ex-wife, who is suing Sinema under North Carolina's alienation of affection law.

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What they’re saying

“On May 27, 2024, while Mr. Ammel was on a security detail for me in Sonoma, CA, we were physically intimate for the first time.”

— Kyrsten Sinema

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to dismiss the lawsuit filed by Heather Ammel against Sinema due to lack of personal jurisdiction.

The takeaway

This case highlights the potential legal consequences for public figures engaging in extramarital affairs, as well as the complexities around jurisdiction and state laws regarding alienation of affection. It also raises questions about the ethical boundaries between elected officials and their staff.