Former Arizona Senator Kyrsten Sinema is involved in a legal case due to her past relationship with Matthew Ammel, an ex-member of her security team. The lawsuit, initiated by Ammel’s former wife, Heather, accuses Sinema of contributing to the breakdown of their 14-year marriage under North Carolina’s unique alienation of affection law. This law allows a spouse to claim damages for the disruption of a marital bond by a third party.
In court documents and deposition testimony, Sinema admitted her professional relationship with Matthew Ammel developed into a romantic and sexual connection. This transition began in 2024 while she was still a senator. They had interactions across several states including California, Arizona, New York, and Washington, D.C.
Heather Ammel is pursuing damages valued at a minimum of $75,000 from Sinema. The case is receiving considerable attention partly due to Sinema’s notable political role. She served Arizona in the Senate from 2019 until early 2025, moving from the Democratic Party to become an independent.
Revelations from the Testimony
A July 31 deposition shed light on Sinema’s relationship with Matthew, starting in May 2024. Court files reveal that the Ammels separated on November 1, 2024, with the divorce finalized by March 2026. Sinema acknowledged the relationship as both “romantic and intimate”, involving regular communication through multiple channels.
Sinema recollected a specific encounter: “We were staying at an Airbnb in Napa, California. Matt kissed me. We went inside and had sex.” During her deposition, questions arose about messages she sent Matthew, including one photographic message. Sinema explained the image, showing her in a towel, was “about sports”, citing her athletic involvement and the photo’s cupping marks as context.
Despite acknowledging the relationship, Sinema emphasized its occurrence outside North Carolina, questioning the jurisdictional basis for the lawsuit. This testimony will likely influence ongoing considerations about the case’s progression.
Next Steps in the Case
The main legal question is whether North Carolina has jurisdiction over Sinema in this matter. Both parties filed additional briefs on August 12, alongside depositions and evidence. Sinema has indicated her intent to present live witnesses regarding the jurisdictional challenge.
U.S. District Judge David A. Bragdon will review the supplemental materials to decide whether the case should continue in North Carolina or if Sinema’s dismissal request will be granted. Should the court rule in favor of continuing the lawsuit, further discovery and a potential trial regarding Heather Ammel’s alienation-of-affection claims will follow.