Goldman Sachs’ top lawyer Kathy Ruemmler to resign after emails show close ties to Jeffrey Epstein
Kathy Ruemmler, the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel of Goldman Sachs and a former White House counsel to President Barack Obama, announced her resignation on Thursday. This decision follows the surfacing of emails revealing a close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and raising questions about her prior statements regarding his crimes.
A Long-Held Position
Ruemmler had held the top legal post at Goldman Sachs since 2020. Prior to that, she served as White House counsel under President Obama, leaving that role in 2014. She stated her resignation will be effective June 30, 2026, and cited a responsibility to prioritize the interests of Goldman Sachs.
The Epstein Connection
The catalyst for Ruemmler’s departure is the release of emails showing a relationship with Epstein where she referred to him as an “older brother” and appeared to downplay the severity of his offenses. While she has recently characterized Epstein as a “monster,” the emails reveal a markedly different sentiment prior to his second arrest in 2019 and subsequent death in a Manhattan jail.
Emails from 2018 show Ruemmler expressing gratitude to Epstein, referring to him as “Uncle Jeffrey.” Goldman Sachs, in a prior statement, indicated Ruemmler “regrets ever knowing him.”
Wall Street Standards and Gifts
The exchange of gifts between clients and Wall Street professionals, particularly high-value items, is generally discouraged due to potential conflicts of interest. Goldman Sachs’ code of conduct requires preapproval for both giving and receiving gifts from clients, in part to comply with anti-bribery laws.
Despite the emerging details, Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon had as recently as December described Ruemmler as an “excellent lawyer” and expressed his full support. Ruemmler herself had previously resisted calls for her resignation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Kathy Ruemmler’s resignation?
The release of emails revealing a close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and her earlier descriptions of him prompted her resignation as Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel of Goldman Sachs.
What was the nature of Ruemmler’s relationship with Epstein?
Emails show Ruemmler referred to Epstein as an “older brother” and “Uncle Jeffrey,” and expressed affection for him prior to his second arrest for sex crimes.
What is Goldman Sachs’ policy regarding gifts from clients?
Goldman Sachs requires employees to obtain preapproval before receiving or giving gifts to clients, in order to avoid potential conflicts of interest and comply with anti-bribery laws.
What implications might this situation have for future scrutiny of individuals in similar positions?