Goldman Lawyer Consulted Epstein on Secret Service Scandal

Ruemmler, former White House counsel, corresponded with Epstein about 2012 prostitution case

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Kathryn Ruemmler, the former top lawyer at Goldman Sachs, exchanged emails with Jeffrey Epstein about a 2012 prostitution scandal involving the U.S. Secret Service. Ruemmler, who previously served as White House counsel under President Obama, complained to Epstein about the scandal and shared nonpublic details about the White House's investigation into the matter.

Why it matters

The revelation of Ruemmler's communications with Epstein, a convicted sex offender, raises questions about her judgment and the extent of Epstein's influence in Washington circles, even after his conviction. As a former top government lawyer, Ruemmler's actions could undermine public trust in the integrity of government investigations.

The details

According to the report, Ruemmler and Epstein exchanged around a dozen emails months after Ruemmler left her position as White House counsel in 2014. In the emails, Ruemmler complained about the 'secret service crap' and forwarded Epstein a draft email containing detailed, nonpublic information about the White House's role in investigating the 2012 prostitution scandal involving Secret Service agents. Epstein offered Ruemmler advice and suggested edits to the draft email, which Ruemmler indicated she planned to send to a journalist.

  • Ruemmler left her position as White House counsel in 2014.
  • The emails between Ruemmler and Epstein occurred several months after Ruemmler's departure from the White House.

The players

Kathryn Ruemmler

The former top lawyer at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and former White House counsel under President Barack Obama.

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted sex offender who had connections to influential figures in Washington, D.C.

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What they’re saying

“Breathe, smile. You're free.”

— Jeffrey Epstein (Bloomberg)

What’s next

The report does not mention any clear next steps, as the events described occurred in the past.

The takeaway

This case highlights concerns about the influence of convicted sex offenders like Epstein in Washington circles and the potential misuse of government information by former officials, even after they have left their positions.