Kathy Ruemmler Resigns from Goldman Sachs Amid Epstein Ties

Emails reveal close relationship between former White House counsel and disgraced financier

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kathy Ruemmler, the general counsel of Goldman Sachs, has announced her resignation after a trove of emails and correspondence between her and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein surfaced, depicting a closer relationship than she had previously acknowledged. The documents show intimate exchanges, social plans, and expensive gifts that went beyond a professional lawyer-client relationship.

Why it matters

Ruemmler's close ties to Epstein, a convicted sex offender, raise questions about her judgment and the bank's vetting process. Wall Street typically frowns upon such gift-giving between clients and bankers or lawyers, as it can pose conflicts of interest.

The details

The emails and documents show that Ruemmler was aware of the extent of the allegations against Epstein involving underage girls, and she even advised him on how to repair his public image. The gifts Epstein gave Ruemmler included spa treatments, luxury handbags, an Apple Watch, and a Fendi coat. Their correspondence also included discussions about dating, careers, and everyday life, suggesting a deeper personal relationship.

  • In 2008, Epstein was convicted of sex crimes and became a registered sex offender.
  • In 2018, Epstein directed his assistant to send flowers and chicken soup to Ruemmler when she was not feeling well.
  • In 2019, Epstein was arrested a second time for sex crimes and later killed himself in a Manhattan jail.
  • In 2020, Ruemmler joined Goldman Sachs and became the investment bank's top lawyer in 2021.
  • On February 14, 2026, Ruemmler announced her resignation from Goldman Sachs.

The players

Kathy Ruemmler

The former general counsel of Goldman Sachs, who had a storied legal career, including as a federal prosecutor and in the Obama administration.

Jeffrey Epstein

A disgraced financier who was convicted of sex crimes in 2008 and became a registered sex offender.

David Solomon

The CEO of Goldman Sachs, who respected Ruemmler's decision to resign.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It makes him happy to see you happy,”

— Epstein's assistant (The Associated Press)

“So lovely and thoughtful! Thank you to Uncle Jeffrey!!!”

— Kathy Ruemmler (The Associated Press)

“Well, I adore him. It's like having another older brother!”

— Kathy Ruemmler (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The firm is not rushing Ruemmler out the door, saying she will wind down her work at the bank 'to ensure a smooth transition' before her last day on June 30.

The takeaway

Ruemmler's close ties to Epstein, a convicted sex offender, have raised serious questions about her judgment and the vetting process at Goldman Sachs. This case highlights the importance of financial institutions maintaining strict policies around gift-giving and conflicts of interest to uphold their reputation and integrity.