Kathryn Ruemmler Resigns as Goldman Sachs General Counsel Following Appearance in Epstein Files

Goldman Sachs General Counsel Steps Down Amid Epstein Revelations

Kathryn Ruemmler, the Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel for Goldman Sachs, has announced her resignation from the prominent financial institution. The resignation, which is effective June 30, 2026, comes in the wake of her name appearing in millions of documents recently released by the U.S. Department of Justice related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon confirmed Ruemmler's departure in a statement, noting, 'I accepted her resignation, and I respect her decision.' Solomon also praised her as an 'extraordinary general counsel' who 'will be missed.'

Details Emerge from Epstein Documents

The recently unsealed Epstein files, with a significant release of 3 million documents on January 30, 2026, revealed extensive communications involving Ruemmler. These documents, which span from 2014 to 2019, indicate a close relationship between Ruemmler and Epstein. Emails show Ruemmler referring to Epstein as 'Uncle Jeffrey' and an 'older brother,' and expressing affection for him.

During her time in private practice at Latham & Watkins, prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Ruemmler reportedly provided legal advice to Epstein on various matters, including how to respond to accusations. The files also detail instances where Epstein provided Ruemmler with expensive gifts, such as luxury handbags and a fur coat. Ruemmler had previously stated in 2023 that she regretted ever knowing Epstein.

Ruemmler's Career and Role at Goldman Sachs

Kathryn Ruemmler joined Goldman Sachs in 2020 as a partner and Global Head of Regulatory Affairs, and was promoted to Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel in 2021. In this capacity, she served on the firmwide Management Committee and co-chaired the firm's reputational risk committee.

Before her tenure at Goldman Sachs, Ruemmler had a distinguished career in public service, notably serving as White House Counsel to President Barack Obama from 2011 to 2014. She also held roles as a federal prosecutor and was Associate Counsel to President Bill Clinton.

Impact of the Document Release

The Department of Justice's release of the Epstein files, mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act signed into law in November 2025, has brought increased scrutiny to numerous public figures mentioned within the documents. Ruemmler's resignation marks one of the latest high-profile departures following these disclosures.