Goldman Sachs' Top Lawyer Received Gifts from Jeffrey Epstein, Emails Show

Kathryn Ruemmler, who was also White House counsel, referred to Epstein as "Uncle Jeffrey" and advised him on media inquiries.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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According to a Reuters review of newly released documents, Goldman Sachs' top lawyer Kathryn Ruemmler accepted gifts from the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and advised him on how to respond to media inquiries regarding his crimes. Ruemmler, who also served as White House counsel during the Obama administration, referred to Epstein as "Uncle Jeffrey" in emails and received gifts from him including wine and a handbag.

Why it matters

The revelations about Ruemmler's relationship with Epstein raise questions about the ethical standards and oversight at the highest levels of Goldman Sachs and the legal profession. As a prominent figure in both finance and politics, Ruemmler's actions could undermine public trust in the integrity of these institutions.

The details

The documents show that Ruemmler had a large number of communications with Epstein from 2014 to 2019, even after his 2008 guilty plea for procuring a person under the age of 18 for prostitution. These communications included advising Epstein on how to respond to a 2019 media query concerning the alleged special legal treatment he received because of his connections.

  • In 2018, Epstein emailed Ruemmler offering to buy her an Hermès Apple Watch band.
  • In 2019, Ruemmler thanked Epstein for gifts including "Jeffrey boots, handbag, and watch".
  • In 2016, Epstein asked Ruemmler what Donald Trump, who later became U.S. president, should say when asked questions about him.

The players

Kathryn Ruemmler

The top lawyer at Goldman Sachs who previously served as White House counsel during the Obama administration.

Jeffrey Epstein

The late sex offender who had a relationship with Ruemmler, referring to her as "Uncle Jeffrey" and providing her with gifts.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. president whom Epstein asked Ruemmler about how to respond to questions regarding their relationship.

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What they’re saying

“I was a defense attorney when I dealt with Jeffrey Epstein. I got to know him as a lawyer and that was the foundation of my relationship with him. I had no knowledge of any ongoing criminal conduct on his part, and I did not know him as the monster he has been revealed to be.”

— Kathryn Ruemmler (Reuters)

“Epstein often offered unsolicited favors and gifts to many business contacts.”

— Tony Fratto, Goldman Spokesperson (Reuters)

What’s next

Goldman Sachs has stated that it conducted its own diligence on Ruemmler's prior relationship with Epstein and is satisfied with her work as the firm's general counsel. However, the revelations may prompt further scrutiny and investigations into the ethical standards and oversight at the highest levels of the legal and financial industries.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability around the relationships between prominent figures in law, finance, and politics, especially when it comes to individuals with a history of criminal conduct. It raises concerns about the potential for conflicts of interest and the erosion of public trust in these institutions.