Story perspectives

Sinema Admits Affair Amid Controversial Lawsuit Claims

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema admitted to an affair with her bodyguard, Matthew Ammel, while he was still married.
The admission follows a lawsuit from Ammel's ex-wife, Heather, under North Carolina's "alienation of affection" law.
Sinema claims the affair began in May 2024, after Ammel's separation, and seeks dismissal of the lawsuit due to the relationship occurring outside North Carolina.
Heather alleges Sinema pursued Ammel despite his marriage, citing romantic messages and encounters during work trips.
Sinema denies sending provocative photos and asserts all communications occurred when Ammel was outside North Carolina.

History

Historical Context

North Carolina's "alienation of affection" law, enacted in 1935, allows spouses to sue third parties for marital interference, leading to high-profile cases like the $9 million verdict in 2010 against a mistress. With over 200 cases filed annually, the law remains significant, as seen in Kyrsten Sinema's recent affair, where damages are sought by Ammel's ex-wife, reflecting ongoing societal complexities surrounding infidelity.

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Story summary

Former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema admitted to an affair with her bodyguard, Matthew Ammel, while he was still married.
The admission follows a lawsuit from Ammel's ex-wife, Heather, under North Carolina's "alienation of affection" law.
Sinema claims the affair began in May 2024, after Ammel's separation, and seeks dismissal of the lawsuit due to the relationship occurring outside North Carolina.
Heather alleges Sinema pursued Ammel despite his marriage, citing romantic messages and encounters during work trips.
Sinema denies sending provocative photos and asserts all communications occurred when Ammel was outside North Carolina.

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