Goldman Sachs' Chief Lawyer Kathy Ruemmler Resigns Amid Epstein Email Controversy

• Ruemmler was one of three people Epstein called on July 6, 2019, immediately after being arrested by federal authorities at a New Jersey airport on child sex trafficking charges
• Goldman CEO David Solomon had previously defended Ruemmler in November after earlier document releases, calling her an 'exceptional general counsel'
• The resignation follows a pattern of high-profile departures linked to Epstein, including British official Peter Mandelson and law firm chairman Brad Karp losing positions over similar associations

Goldman Sachs Chief Lawyer Resigns Following Epstein Document Release

Kathy Ruemmler, Goldman Sachs' chief legal officer and general counsel, has resigned following the release of documents detailing her communications with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The departure comes days after The Wall Street Journal reported that Ruemmler was among three people Epstein called on July 6, 2019, immediately after his arrest on federal child sex trafficking charges.

Key Details:

The documents, released by the Department of Justice in late January, include handwritten law enforcement notes from Epstein's arrest. At the time of the call, Ruemmler worked as a white-collar criminal defense attorney at Latham & Watkins before joining Goldman Sachs. She has consistently denied representing Epstein and claims no knowledge of his criminal activities.

Goldman Sachs had defended Ruemmler for several months following earlier DOJ document releases. As recently as November, the bank praised her as "an exceptional general counsel," emphasizing the value of her judgment. Ruemmler previously served as White House counsel under President Barack Obama and was a key advisor to Goldman CEO David Solomon.

Broader Impact:

Ruemmler joins a growing list of high-profile figures losing positions due to Epstein associations. Recent departures include Morgan Sweeney, chief of staff to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and the chairman of a major corporate law firm. These resignations reflect mounting pressure on organizations to distance themselves from individuals with Epstein connections.

Through her spokeswoman, Ruemmler acknowledged being "friendly" with Epstein during her criminal defense career but has stated she regrets ever knowing him. The resignation marks a significant leadership change at one of Wall Street's premier investment banks.