NEW YORK (Feb 13, 2026) — Kathy Ruemmler, the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel of Goldman Sachs, has announced her resignation following the release of explosive Department of Justice (DOJ) documents detailing her close ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Ruemmler, who served as White House Counsel to President Barack Obama from 2011 to 2014, will officially step down on June 30, 2026.
Key Takeaways from the DOJ Disclosures
The recently unsealed files reveal that between 2014 and 2019—years after Epstein’s 2008 conviction—Ruemmler maintained a close personal and professional relationship with him:
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“Uncle Jeffrey” Emails: Ruemmler referred to Epstein as “Uncle Jeffrey” and “an older brother” in communications, expressing deep affection and gratitude for their friendship.
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Luxury Gifts: Documents show she received high-end gifts, including Hermès bags, Apple products, and fur coats, often thanking “Uncle Jeffrey” for being “so thoughtful.”
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Island Visit Request: In 2017, Ruemmler reportedly asked to make a “day trip” to Epstein’s private Caribbean island, Little St. James.
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Legal & Media Advice: Despite claiming she never officially represented him, emails show she advised Epstein on responding to media inquiries regarding his criminal past and legal treatment.
Impact on Goldman Sachs
Ruemmler stated that the intensifying media scrutiny regarding her past work as a defense attorney had become a “distraction” to the firm.
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CEO Support: Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, who had previously defended Ruemmler as an “extraordinary lawyer,” accepted her resignation, stating she would be missed for her “sound advice” and “integrity.”
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Policy Concerns: The revelations have raised questions regarding Wall Street’s strict codes of conduct, which typically require prior approval for accepting expensive gifts from clients to avoid conflicts of interest.
Career Profile: Kathy Ruemmler
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Goldman Sachs: Joined in 2020; promoted to Chief Legal Officer in 2021.
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Obama Administration: Longest-serving White House Counsel (2011–2014); also served as a top federal prosecutor on the Enron Task Force.
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Private Practice: Former partner at Latham & Watkins, where she met and communicated with Epstein.
