Key facts
- Kathryn Ruemmler, former Goldman Sachs general counsel and Obama White House counsel, testified before the House Oversight Committee.
- The testimony concerns Ruemmler's extensive communications and relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
- Documents show Ruemmler accepted gifts from Epstein and referred to him as 'Uncle Jeffrey' in emails.
- Ruemmler stated she would have reported Epstein if aware of any abuse and saw no evidence of criminal conduct.
- Ruemmler announced her resignation as chief legal officer of Goldman Sachs, effective June 30, but will remain in an advisory role.
Kathryn Ruemmler, formerly the top lawyer at Goldman Sachs and White House counsel under President Barack Obama, testified before the House Oversight Committee regarding her relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Lawmakers are investigating the network of powerful individuals connected to Epstein, with Ruemmler being the latest high-profile witness. Documents released by the Justice Department indicate an extensive relationship between Ruemmler and Epstein, including personal emails, social plans, and gifts that extended beyond formal legal work, occurring years after his 2008 conviction on sex crimes. Ruemmler stated she would have reported Epstein if she had been aware of any abuse and saw no evidence of criminal conduct. She announced her intention to step down as Goldman Sachs' general counsel, a role she held for six years, effective June 30, amid scrutiny over her correspondence with Epstein, though she will remain with the bank in an advisory capacity. Rep. Robert Garcia noted that Ruemmler's emails were concerning and that she could provide unique insight into the final phase of Epstein's life. The committee has also subpoenaed billionaire investor Leon Black and expressed interest in questioning acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.