Top Goldman Sachs lawyer Kathy Ruemmler has announced her resignation amid controversy over her ties to Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of millions of pages of documents by the Justice Department. Her departure marks a significant development in the ongoing fallout from the Epstein case, affecting high-profile figures in business and politics.
Ruemmler made the decision to step down on Thursday night, with her resignation effective June 30, 2026. She cited the media attention surrounding her past relationship with Epstein as a distraction that could impact Goldman Sachs. The announcement came after weeks of scrutiny as millions of pages of Epstein-related files were made public, revealing detailed communications between Ruemmler and the disgraced financier.
As a top adviser to Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, Ruemmler played a crucial role in overseeing the firm’s legal and regulatory matters since joining six years ago. Her background includes serving as White House counsel during the Obama administration, which added to her prominence in legal and political circles. At Goldman Sachs, she was known for enhancing risk management processes and upholding integrity, making her resignation a notable event within the financial industry.
The emails disclosed show that Ruemmler maintained a friendly correspondence with Epstein over several years, including after his conviction. In one exchange, she referred to him as “sweetie” and thanked “Uncle Jeffrey,” while other messages discussed legal advice and personal gifts, such as a Hermes bag. Ruemmler was also listed as a backup executor on Epstein’s will, although she never served in that capacity and her name was removed before his death. She has consistently stated that her relationship with Epstein was professional, stemming from her work as a criminal defense attorney.
In her statement to CNN, Ruemmler expressed regret for the situation, emphasizing her commitment to putting Goldman Sachs’ interests first. CEO David Solomon acknowledged her contributions, describing her as an extraordinary general counsel and mentor. He accepted her resignation with respect, indicating that the firm stands by its values while navigating the controversy. Goldman Sachs has noted that Ruemmler disclosed her dealings with Epstein when hired in 2020, and the firm had previously supported her amidst the growing scrutiny.
Ruemmler’s resignation is part of a wider trend of high-profile departures linked to the Epstein files. Earlier in February, Brad Karp stepped down as chairman of the law firm Paul Weiss due to similar email revelations. In the U.K., Morgan McSweeney resigned as chief of staff to Prime Minister Keir Starmer over Epstein-related appointments. These cases highlight how the released documents are causing ripples across global business and political landscapes, forcing organizations to reassess associations and accountability.
For Goldman Sachs, the loss of a key legal leader comes at a time when the firm faces increased regulatory and reputational challenges. The Epstein fallout may prompt stricter internal reviews of executive backgrounds and communications. Investors and stakeholders are likely monitoring how the bank manages this crisis, with potential implications for its corporate governance and public image.
As the Epstein document release continues to unfold, more revelations could emerge, affecting additional individuals and institutions. Ruemmler’s departure underscores the lasting impact of the scandal, demonstrating that even years after Epstein’s death, his connections continue to shape careers and corporate decisions. The event serves as a reminder of the complex intersections between law, business, and ethics in the modern era.
