Goldman Sachs Repeatedly Questioned Top Lawyer on Epstein Ties, Transcript Reveals

Goldman Sachs conducted multiple internal reviews of its former top lawyer, Kathryn Ruemmler, regarding her connections to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to a transcript released by the U.S. House Oversight Committee. The previously unreported inquiries raise new questions about the bank's handling of the matter in the years leading up to her departure.

Details of the Inquiries

According to the transcript released late Wednesday, Ruemmler testified before the committee that the bank questioned her about the association in 2023, 2025, and 2026 as public and media scrutiny intensified.

"I wouldn’t characterize it as investigation, but there were reviews done and questions asked," Ruemmler stated in her testimony. She attributed the timing of the reviews to "increasing media scrutiny around anybody who had ever sat in the same room with Jeffrey Epstein."

During these internal discussions, Ruemmler informed Goldman Sachs that she knew Epstein, had communicated with him, and had "dealt" with him. She clarified that while Epstein was not her client, he served as a primary adviser to one of her clients and would occasionally seek her views on matters.

Context of Departure

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The revelations provide new context to Ruemmler's decision to step down as Goldman's chief legal officer and general counsel at the end of June. Her departure followed the publication of Justice Department documents that detailed extensive communications with Epstein, including the acceptance of gifts.

In her testimony this month, Ruemmler described Epstein as a "masterful liar," stating she would have reported him to law enforcement if she had been aware of his abuse of women or girls. Before joining Goldman Sachs in 2020, Ruemmler was a partner at law firm Latham & Watkins and served as White House Counsel to President Barack Obama.

Current Role and Governance Implications

Ruemmler is currently serving in an advisory capacity at Goldman Sachs and is involved in the search for her successor. When asked by a committee member to ensure the next general counsel would have no ties to Epstein or his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, Ruemmler deferred to the company's leadership.

"In the American legal system we hold people accountable for their conduct. We don’t hold people accountable for their associations," she said. A spokesperson for Goldman Sachs declined to comment on the matter.