DEEP DIVE: Kathryn "Kathy" Ruemmler and Jeffrey Epstein
Kathryn Ruemmler served as White House Counsel to President Barack Obama from June 2011 to May 2014. After leaving the White House, she joined Latham & Watkins as a partner and was later appointed Goldman Sachs General Counsel in 2020. The FBI files reveal a sustained, intimate personal relationship between Ruemmler and Jeffrey Epstein spanning at minimum from July 2014 through at least January 2019 -- beginning approximately two months after she left the White House and continuing for over four
DEEP DIVE: Kathryn "Kathy" Ruemmler and Jeffrey Epstein
Former Obama White House Counsel / Goldman Sachs General Counsel
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Kathryn Ruemmler served as White House Counsel to President Barack Obama from June 2011 to May 2014. After leaving the White House, she joined Latham & Watkins as a partner and was later appointed Goldman Sachs General Counsel in 2020. The FBI files reveal a sustained, intimate personal relationship between Ruemmler and Jeffrey Epstein spanning at minimum from July 2014 through at least January 2019 -- beginning approximately two months after she left the White House and continuing for over four years well after Epstein's 2008 sex offense conviction was public knowledge. One additional document dates to May 2019, just two months before Epstein's final arrest. An Epstein iMessage from January 9, 2019 (EFTA00509013) confirms he planned "kathy for breakfast tomorrow," placing the relationship as active after the Miami Herald's November 2018 "Perversion of Justice" series.
The documents total over 100 unique records across the FBI databases (DS9 and DS11 together contain at minimum 80+ unique EFTA documents referencing Ruemmler by name, plus trust documents, financial records, gift documentation, and calendar entries), revealing a relationship that was simultaneously personal, quasi-legal/advisory, fiduciary, and deeply intertwined with Epstein's social and political networks. The most significant finding from the full corpus revisit is that Ruemmler was a named Trustee on the Jeffrey E. Epstein 2018 Trust (EFTA00099449), alongside Darren K. Indyke and Richard D. Kahn -- a formal fiduciary relationship, not merely a social connection. The correspondence shows Epstein was advising Ruemmler on a major job offer, that Ruemmler was providing Epstein with political intelligence, that Epstein offered her use of his Paris apartment and staff, and that Epstein explicitly recognized the risk her association with him posed to her reputation as a "role model for women" and to the Obama and Clinton political legacies.
DOCUMENT-BY-DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
EFTA02589109 -- September 5, 2014 (Earliest Direct Email)">Document 1: EFTA02589109 -- September 5, 2014 (Earliest Direct Email)
From: Jeffrey Epstein ([email protected]) To: Kathy Ruemmler Content: "do you have to speak today?" Analysis: A brief, casual check-in suggesting an ongoing dialogue. Ruemmler had left the White House approximately four months earlier (May 2014). The brevity and informality suggest an already-established rapport. The question implies awareness of her schedule and professional commitments.EFTA00362480 -- September 15, 2014 (Lesley Groff Scheduling)">Document 2: EFTA00362480 -- September 15, 2014 (Lesley Groff Scheduling)
From: Lesley Groff (Epstein's executive assistant) To: Jeffrey Epstein Subject: Tim Zagat Content:"Please call Tim Zagat at home...Tim will be back in NY on 24th...he is hoping that will be good for you to have dinner."
>
"Wed. Sept. 24, 2014 NY"
"Reminder: Win apt LIP Sept. 24-Oct. 7"
"Reminder: Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown"
"TBD Jagland (Kathy Ruemmler is in NY and would love to join)"Analysis: This is an internal scheduling document showing Ruemmler was being considered as a guest at a dinner with Thorbjorn Jagland, who was at that time the Chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee (2009-2015) and Secretary General of the Council of Europe. The notation shows Ruemmler actively wanted to attend ("would love to join"), and that Epstein was the intermediary enabling access to the Nobel Committee chair. The same scheduling note references Epstein's New York apartment ("Win apt") and a Tim Zagat dinner. Cross-reference: EFTA00362483 -- A companion scheduling document from the same day lists Epstein's visitors for the week:
"People To See: Jagland, Terje, Thiel, Simon, Kathy, Cas, Kasak, India, Summers, Boris, Barbro"
Larry Summers confirmed for Monday Sept 22nd at 3pm.
Ruemmler ("Kathy") was listed alongside Larry Summers (former Treasury Secretary), Peter Thiel, and Jagland as people Epstein planned to see that week. This places her squarely within Epstein's high-level political and financial network.
EFTA02517295 -- September 30, 2014 (The "First Choice" Exchange)">Document 3: EFTA02517295 -- September 30, 2014 (The "First Choice" Exchange)
Multi-page email thread between Epstein and Ruemmler Key exchange (earliest in thread):Epstein: "fun?"
Ruemmler: "Yes. We are having a good meeting."
>
Epstein: "im told you are definitely his first choice but not sure you can be convinced. money etc"
Ruemmler: "Told by whom?"
>
Epstein: "ves said he was very happy"
Ruemmler: "Good. Will call when I get to the train station."
>
Later that day:
Ruemmler: "Ok. If I don't talk to you today, I'll catch up with you tomorrow. Ruth Marcus at wapo wrote an unhelpful piece."
Epstein: "Ok"Analysis - "Definitely His First Choice":
This is one of the most significant exchanges. Epstein told Ruemmler she was "definitely his first choice" for some position, noting concern about whether she could "be convinced" given "money etc." The conversation shows:
EFTA02513986 -- January 12, 2015 (The "Benjamin" Discussion)">Document 4: EFTA02513986 -- January 12, 2015 (The "Benjamin" Discussion)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Subject: Re:Ruemmler (prior email): "had assumed you were exaggerating a bit about Benjamin. Wrong assumption."
>
Epstein: "i have no first hand knowledge ive never met, his father 30 years ago knew a problem was in the future"Analysis:
Ruemmler and Epstein were discussing Benjamin de Rothschild -- this is now confirmed by cross-referencing with the Rothschild investigation file. In March 2014 emails (EFTA02395020), Ariane told Epstein: "CAN't Call as B[enjamin] majorly f*ed up at the House. The girls are afraid." Epstein's response -- "He is in a deeply sliding curve and nothing seems to stop him" -- combined with the reference to Benjamin's father ("his father 30 years ago knew a problem was in the future"), points to Edmond Adolphe de Rothschild (1926-1997), confirming Epstein's relationship with the Rothschild family dated back to approximately 1985. The joint calendar entry "Appt w/Kathy & Ariane" (EFTA02075023) confirms Ruemmler and Ariane de Rothschild met jointly with Epstein -- likely the meeting where Ruemmler observed Benjamin's behavior firsthand. Ruemmler at Latham & Watkins subsequently represented Edmond de Rothschild (Suisse) SA in its DOJ Non-Prosecution Agreement (EFTA00590334), in which the bank paid $45,245,000 -- confirming Epstein connected Ruemmler with the Rothschild family as a client.
EFTA02513974 -- January 13, 2015 (La Reserve / Geneva)">Document 5: EFTA02513974 -- January 13, 2015 (La Reserve / Geneva)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content:"as long as you get some real sleep tomrw night. massage at la reserve is pretty good"
>
Prior email from Epstein: "if you stay at a hotel when you return to genve to work try la reserve, not in town, nice to wake up"Analysis:
Epstein was recommending La Reserve, a luxury hotel in Geneva, Switzerland, to Ruemmler, who was apparently traveling to Geneva for work. He specifically recommended the hotel's massage. The instruction to "get some real sleep" suggests awareness of her travel schedule and physical well-being -- a level of personal intimacy consistent with close friendship.
Geneva context: In January 2015, Ruemmler was likely traveling to Geneva in connection with her legal work at Latham & Watkins, which has major international corporate clients. The fact that Epstein was her go-to advisor for Geneva hotel recommendations underscores the depth of the personal relationship.EFTA02513945 -- January 14, 2015 (Paris Apartment & Staff)">Document 6: EFTA02513945 -- January 14, 2015 (Paris Apartment & Staff)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: HBB (likely staff/assistant), CC Kathy Ruemmler Content:"HBB kathy is going to be in paris, please have valdson at her disposal. he can show her the apt. drive her, give her his egg dish thanks"Analysis:
This is an extraordinary document. Epstein directed his staff to place his Paris apartment and personal driver/staffer "Valdson" at Ruemmler's disposal during her visit to Paris. Valdson was instructed to:
- Show her the apartment
- Drive her around Paris
- Cook for her ("give her his egg dish")
This represents a significant material benefit -- free luxury accommodation in Paris, a personal driver, and personal chef service. The casual tone ("his egg dish") suggests this was not the first such arrangement.
"Valdson" appears in multiple other documents (EFTA00304269, EFTA00304274, EFTA00304278, EFTA00304282, EFTA02236057, EFTA02271384, EFTA02271388, EFTA02299111, EFTA02317834, EFTA02319047, EFTA02388580, EFTA02570959, EFTA02575354) as a regular member of Epstein's Paris household staff.
EFTA02490379 -- August 22, 2015">Document 7: EFTA02490379 -- August 22, 2015
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content: "back in wash? or new yokr?" Analysis: Brief check-in about her location. The informality and the 4:13 AM send time suggest a casual, ongoing back-and-forth consistent with a close personal relationship.EFTA02484285 -- October 12, 2015 (THE KEY DOCUMENT)">Document 8: EFTA02484285 -- October 12, 2015 (THE KEY DOCUMENT)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content:"seen as the good friend that you are. might bring unhelpful criticism of the important role model that you have become for women... defense counsel might create clinton obama unnecessary implication. either way i appreciate the help but we should be extra thoughtful. as surrounded by publicity seeking lawyers etc"CRITICAL ANALYSIS -- "Clinton Obama Unnecessary Implication":
Epstein was writing to Ruemmler about her providing him some form of "help" -- likely legal advice, a character reference, or assistance with his legal defense. He articulated four distinct risks:
- Ruemmler was considering some form of involvement in Epstein's legal matters
- Epstein understood that any such involvement would implicate her former principals (Clinton via Epstein's known flights/association; Obama via Ruemmler's role as his White House Counsel)
- The phrase "unnecessary implication" suggests Epstein wanted to protect Clinton and Obama from scrutiny, not just Ruemmler
- Acknowledging that his ties to Clinton were a known vulnerability
- Recognizing that Ruemmler's involvement would create a direct line from Epstein to the Obama White House
- Seeking to avoid what he characterized as an "unnecessary" — i.e., unwarranted — implication for Clinton and Obama
EFTA02474948 -- January 20, 2016 ("Re: PW, I Have Another Idea")">Document 9: EFTA02474948 -- January 20, 2016 ("Re: PW, I Have Another Idea")
From: Kathy Ruemmler (initiating) To: Jeffrey Epstein Content:Ruemmler: "Re: PW, I have another idea."
Epstein: "Number?"Analysis:
Ruemmler was proposing an "idea" related to "PW" -- likely a person (initials P.W.) or a project. Epstein's response asking for her phone number suggests he wanted to discuss this idea verbally rather than in writing. The fact that Ruemmler initiated this exchange ("I have another idea") shows her as an active participant in whatever "PW" referred to, not merely a passive recipient of Epstein's outreach.
EFTA02470950 -- February 19, 2016 (Phone Number Exchange / "Air Con Photo")">Document 10: EFTA02470950 -- February 19, 2016 (Phone Number Exchange / "Air Con Photo")
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Multi-part exchange:Epstein: "awake?"
Epstein (later): "Don't forget to tell me tomorrow. Just got home from work -- thought I was done working 15-hour days."
Epstein: "funny story when you get a moment"
Epstein: "air con photo"
Ruemmler: "Yes. 301-320-1604" (her phone number)Analysis:
Ruemmler shared her personal cell phone number (301 area code = Maryland/Washington DC area). The exchange reveals a pattern of late-night/early morning communication. Epstein's "awake?" is a check-in characteristic of a close personal relationship. The "air con photo" reference and the "funny story" suggest they shared casual personal content. Epstein's mention of "working 15-hour days" is notable given his purported profession.
EFTA02395018 -- July 3, 2016 (Ken Lunch at Epstein's House)">Document 11: EFTA02395018 -- July 3, 2016 (Ken Lunch at Epstein's House)
From: Kathy Ruemmler To: Jeffrey Epstein Content:Epstein: "If you like you can invite Ken to lunch at my house wed."
Ruemmler: "I think I have to at least meet him"Analysis:
Epstein offered to host a lunch at his home where Ruemmler could meet someone named "Ken." Ruemmler's response ("I think I have to at least meet him") suggests this was a professional introduction that Epstein was facilitating. The willingness to attend lunch at Epstein's residence (likely the East 71st Street Manhattan townhouse) in July 2016 -- when Epstein's sex crime conviction was eight years old and widely reported -- demonstrates the depth of the relationship.
EFTA02664900 -- December 25, 2016 (Christmas Day)">Document 12: EFTA02664900 -- December 25, 2016 (Christmas Day)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content:Ruemmler: "Back home in NY."
Epstein: "welcome back, what are your plans?"Analysis: A Christmas Day exchange. Ruemmler informed Epstein she was back in New York, and he immediately asked about her plans. The holiday timing underscores the personal nature of the relationship.
EFTA02575359 -- October 29, 2017 (Sealed Indictment / Manafort)">Document 13: EFTA02575359 -- October 29, 2017 (Sealed Indictment / Manafort)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content:"news?? why would they file a sealed indictment? if it is true"CRITICAL ANALYSIS: Date significance: October 29, 2017 was the exact date that CNN reported the first charges had been filed in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. The sealed indictment against Paul Manafort and Rick Gates was returned on October 27, 2017, and reported on October 28-29. Manafort was arrested on October 30.
Epstein turned to Ruemmler -- the former White House Counsel, former senior DOJ official (she led the Enron prosecution), and a premier white-collar defense attorney -- for her perspective on this legal development. His questions:
EFTA02570921 -- November 4, 2017 ("Your Nigerian")">Document 14: EFTA02570921 -- November 4, 2017 ("Your Nigerian")
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Full exchange:Epstein: "your nigerian is a lefty. predisposed to empower women. minorities etc... its your to lose"
Ruemmler: "Jeez - no pressure!"
Epstein: "youre used to it... unless its another woman. he could never explain turning you down. :)"CRITICAL ANALYSIS -- "Your Nigerian":
Epstein was coaching Ruemmler about someone he described as "your nigerian" who was:
- Politically left-leaning ("a lefty")
- Inclined to "empower women, minorities"
- In a position to select or appoint Ruemmler ("its your to lose")
- Male ("he could never explain turning you down")
Given the timing (November 2017) and Ruemmler's later appointment as Goldman Sachs General Counsel (announced in 2020), this exchange appears to relate to an early stage of that hiring process or a related high-level corporate position.
Epstein's coaching language reveals:
- He had intelligence about this decision-maker's preferences and politics
- He was actively helping Ruemmler strategize for the role
- He believed her gender was an advantage ("he could never explain turning you down")
- The relationship was so close he could pressure her about career decisions
EFTA02570967 -- November 2017 (St. James Park Photo)">Document 15: EFTA02570967 -- November 2017 (St. James Park Photo)
From: Kathy Ruemmler To: Jeffrey Epstein Subject: St James Park Attachments: IMG_2220.JPG; Untitled attachment 00134.txt Analysis:Ruemmler sent Epstein a photo from St. James's Park in London. This is a purely personal communication -- sharing a vacation or travel photo. The direction of this exchange (Ruemmler to Epstein) shows she was actively maintaining the relationship, not just responding to his outreach.
EFTA02560625 -- November 28, 2017 (Russia Doping Article)">Document 16: EFTA02560625 -- November 28, 2017 (Russia Doping Article)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content: A shared NYT link about Russia doping scandal (Olympics). Analysis: Epstein shared a New York Times article about Russian Olympic doping with Ruemmler. This is consistent with a pattern of sharing news articles and staying in regular communication.EFTA02532942 -- January 28, 2018 (Last Known Direct Email)">Document 17: EFTA02532942 -- January 28, 2018 (Last Known Direct Email)
From: Jeffrey Epstein To: Kathy Ruemmler Content: "awake? chat?" Analysis: The final known email in the direct correspondence -- again, a late-night/early morning "awake?" check-in, mirroring the February 2016 exchange. This format suggests a regular pattern: Epstein checking if Ruemmler was available for a phone call, typically at unusual hours.EFTA02285667 -- May 21, 2019 (Latest Known Communication)">Document 18: EFTA02285667 -- May 21, 2019 (Latest Known Communication)
From: Kathy Ruemmler (OCR reads "Kathy Ruemmiler" -- OCR error) Subject: Re: Jeffrey Epstein Partial content: "NY and I know you and he are" CRITICAL ANALYSIS:This email is dated May 21, 2019 -- less than two months before Epstein's arrest on July 6, 2019. The subject line "Re: Jeffrey Epstein" indicates Ruemmler was communicating with an unidentified recipient about Epstein. The partial text "NY and I know you and he are" suggests she was discussing Epstein's New York presence and someone else's relationship with him.
The "To:" field is redacted. This could be communication with another person about Epstein, or it could be a forwarded chain. Either way, it demonstrates that Ruemmler's connection to Epstein was active as late as May 2019.
EFTA02066243 -- Richard Kahn / Ruemmler Connection">Document 19: EFTA02066243 -- Richard Kahn / Ruemmler Connection
Redaction database data:- Page 0: "Richard Kahn" / "Subject: Re: Kathy Ruemmler"
- Page 1: "Subject: Re: Jeffrey Epstein"
This document shows an email where Richard Kahn's message has the subject "Re: Kathy Ruemmler" and on the next page, the subject "Re: Jeffrey Epstein." This indicates internal Epstein organization communications about Ruemmler -- possibly regarding logistics, financial arrangements, or coordination of Epstein's interactions with her.
The fact that Epstein's accountant was involved in correspondence mentioning Ruemmler by name suggests either:
- Financial arrangements were being made on her behalf (consistent with the Paris apartment/staff access)
- Her visits or interactions required logistical coordination through Epstein's team
- She was a sufficiently important contact to warrant internal discussion
ADDITIONAL REDACTION DATABASE DOCUMENTS
EFTA02065458 -- Contact Record">EFTA02065458 -- Contact Record
Redaction reveals: "Kathy Ruemmler" on page 2; email thread structure with "wrote:" on page 1.
EFTA02065485 -- Contact Record">EFTA02065485 -- Contact Record
Redaction reveals: "Kathy Ruemmler" on page 2; "EMI" (possibly email identifier) on page 0.
EFTA02065525 -- Contact Record">EFTA02065525 -- Contact Record
Redaction reveals: "Kath Ruemmler" on page 2 (OCR variant).
EFTA02066240 -- Direct Reference">EFTA02066240 -- Direct Reference
Redaction reveals: "Kathy Ruemmler" on page 0, with garbled text suggesting a digital contact record or address entry.
EFTA02075484 -- Rothschild Connection">EFTA02075484 -- Rothschild Connection
Redaction reveals: "de Rothschild-2" and "Ruemmler" appearing together. This places Ruemmler in the same document as a Rothschild family reference, consistent with overlapping social/financial networks. Epstein maintained close ties to the Rothschild banking family.
EFTA02092624 -- Bella Klein to Ruemmler">EFTA02092624 -- Bella Klein to Ruemmler
Redaction reveals: "Bella Klein" / "To: Kath Ruemmler." Bella Klein was Epstein's personal assistant/household staff member who handled scheduling and logistics. A direct communication from Klein to Ruemmler suggests coordination of visits, travel, or other logistical arrangements directly between Epstein's household and Ruemmler.
EFTA02195931 -- CC'd Communication">EFTA02195931 -- CC'd Communication
Redaction reveals: "Cc: Kathy Ruemmler" -- she was CC'd on some internal or group communication.
EFTA02196090 and EFTA02197184 -- Additional References">EFTA02196090 and EFTA02197184 -- Additional References
Both show "Kathy Ruemmler" in redacted content, suggesting additional contact records or communications that have been partially obscured.
ANALYTICAL FINDINGS
1. NATURE OF THE RELATIONSHIP
The relationship was multifaceted, combining elements of:
Personal friendship:- "awake? chat?" late-night check-ins (Feb 2016, Jan 2018)
- Sharing vacation photos (St. James Park, London)
- Christmas Day communication
- Hotel and massage recommendations
- Sharing news articles
- Use of Epstein's Paris apartment
- Personal driver (Valdson) placed "at her disposal"
- Personal chef services
- Social introductions (Jagland/Nobel Committee, "Ken")
- Discussion of sealed indictments (Mueller/Manafort)
- "Defense counsel might create clinton obama unnecessary implication"
- "PW, I have another idea"
- Epstein acknowledging her "help" while warning of risks
- "Definitely his first choice but not sure you can be convinced"
- "Your nigerian is a lefty... its your to lose"
- Active coaching on job prospects
2. "CLINTON OBAMA UNNECESSARY IMPLICATION" -- Context
The October 12, 2015 email (EFTA02484285) was written in the context of Epstein's ongoing civil litigation from victims. Ruemmler had apparently offered or was considering offering some form of assistance to Epstein's legal defense. Epstein warned her off because:
- Clinton connection: Bill Clinton had flown on Epstein's plane multiple times and visited Epstein's properties. Any involvement by a Clinton-adjacent figure (Ruemmler worked at the DOJ during the Clinton administration before joining the Obama White House) would renew scrutiny.
- Obama connection: Ruemmler served as Obama's White House Counsel. Her involvement with Epstein's defense would create an inescapable link from Epstein to the sitting Democratic administration (Obama was still president in October 2015).
- "Defense counsel" refers to opposing counsel -- attorneys for Epstein's victims who could exploit Ruemmler's presence to broaden the political dimensions of the case.
3. "YOUR NIGERIAN" -- Identification
Based on available evidence, the most likely identification is Adebayo Ogunlesi, the Nigerian-American financier who served on the Goldman Sachs Board of Directors. The characteristics described by Epstein -- "a lefty," "predisposed to empower women, minorities" -- combined with Ruemmler's eventual appointment as Goldman Sachs General Counsel, suggest this exchange related to a Goldman Sachs position or a position at another major firm where Ogunlesi or another Nigerian-descent decision-maker had influence.
The timeline (November 2017) precedes Ruemmler's Goldman Sachs appointment (2020) by three years, suggesting either an early-stage discussion or a different position entirely.
4. "DEFINITELY HIS FIRST CHOICE" -- AG Nomination Context
The September 30, 2014 exchange (EFTA02517295) almost certainly concerned the U.S. Attorney General position. On September 26-27, 2014 -- four days before this exchange -- Epstein forwarded a NYT article about Ruemmler as an AG candidate to Staley, Rothschild, Thiel, and Jabor Yousuf (EFTA00997715-18). "Money etc." would refer to the pay cut from private practice. "ves said he was very happy" is the source's feedback. The identity of "ves" is unclear.
Epstein was actively promoting Ruemmler's candidacy within his network. The timing of this promotion — circulating the AG article to Staley, Rothschild, Thiel, and Jabor — is consistent with the "first choice" exchange four days later.
5. "BENJAMIN" -- Partial Identification
The January 12, 2015 exchange (EFTA02513986) discusses "Benjamin," whose father Epstein knew 30 years earlier and who foresaw "a problem was in the future." Ruemmler had "assumed you were exaggerating a bit about Benjamin" but found the characterization accurate upon meeting him. Without additional context, "Benjamin" cannot be definitively identified, but the structure suggests:
- A second-generation associate of Epstein's social circle
- Someone Ruemmler encountered in her professional capacity
- Someone whose behavior was problematic enough to be discussed
6. SEALED INDICTMENT (Manafort)
The October 29, 2017 exchange (EFTA02575359) precisely coincides with news reports about the first sealed indictment in the Mueller investigation. Paul Manafort and Rick Gates were charged; the sealed indictment was reported on October 28-29, 2017. Epstein turned to Ruemmler for:
- Confirmation of the report's accuracy ("if it is true")
- Legal analysis of prosecutorial strategy ("why would they file a sealed indictment?")
This is consistent with the broader pattern of Epstein consulting Ruemmler on legal developments. Her background as a former DOJ prosecutor (she led the Enron Task Force) and White House Counsel made her well-positioned to interpret such developments.
7. RICHARD KAHN CONNECTION
Richard Kahn was Epstein's personal accountant operating through HBRK Associates Inc. at 575 Lexington Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10022. He managed Epstein's accounts at multiple banks, handled trust structures (including trusts with Darren Indyke, referenced frequently as "INDYKE AND RICHARD KAHN" in trust documents), and oversaw wire transfers.
The document EFTA02066243 shows internal Epstein organization communications about Ruemmler involving Kahn, confirming she was significant enough to warrant discussion among Epstein's financial/legal inner circle.
8. TIMELINE ANALYSIS
| Date | Event | Significance |
| ------ | ------- | ------------- |
| June 2011 | Ruemmler becomes Obama White House Counsel | Highest-ranking legal position in the White House |
| 2008 | Epstein convicted of Florida sex offense | State conviction; registered sex offender |
| May 2014 | Ruemmler leaves White House | Transition to private sector |
| Jul 11, 2014 | Earliest known meeting (EFTA00284924 calendar) | Lunch w/Kathy Ruemmler -- just 2 months after leaving WH |
| Jul 30, 2014 | Eva Dubin invitation (EFTA00693988) | Dubin names "Kathryn Ruemmler and Melinda Gates" as invitees |
| Sept 5, 2014 | First known email (EFTA02589109) | Relationship documented within ~4 months of leaving WH |
| Sept 26-27, 2014 | Epstein forwards AG article (EFTA00997715-18) | Ruemmler as AG candidate sent to Staley, Rothschild, Thiel, Jabor |
| Sept 15, 2014 | Scheduled for Jagland/Nobel dinner | Access to Nobel Committee chair via Epstein |
| Sept 22, 2014 | Listed alongside Summers, Thiel as Epstein visitor | Inner circle status confirmed |
| Sept 30, 2014 | "First choice" / Ruth Marcus exchange | Epstein relaying career information from unnamed source |
| Jan 12-14, 2015 | "Benjamin" / Geneva hotel / Paris apartment | Deep personal relationship; material benefits |
| Aug 22, 2015 | Location check-in | Ongoing regular contact |
| Oct 12, 2015 | "Clinton Obama unnecessary implication" | Epstein warns her off helping with his legal defense |
| Jan 20, 2016 | "PW, I have another idea" | Active collaboration on unknown matter |
| Feb 19, 2016 | Phone number exchange / "air con photo" | Personal cell phone shared |
| July 3, 2016 | "Ken" lunch at Epstein's house | Willing to visit Epstein's residence |
| Dec 25, 2016 | Christmas Day check-in | Holiday communication |
| Oct 29, 2017 | Sealed indictment / Manafort query | Epstein consulting Ruemmler on federal legal development |
| Nov 4, 2017 | "Your Nigerian" coaching | Epstein actively advising on career opportunities |
| Nov 2017 | St. James Park photo | Ruemmler sharing travel photos (London) |
| Nov 28, 2017 | Russia doping article shared | News sharing pattern |
| Jan 28, 2018 | "awake? chat?" | Last known direct email in DS11 |
| May 8, 2018 | Epstein 2018 Trust signed (EFTA00099449) | Ruemmler named Trustee alongside Indyke and Kahn |
| May 4, 2018 | "More Wigdor" / Ernst & Young MeToo crisis | Ruemmler discussing sexual misconduct defense work with Epstein |
| Oct 2018 | First Amendment to 2018 Trust (EFTA00099447) | Ruemmler still Trustee; Shuliak distributions added |
| Oct 22-23, 2018 | Wigdor resolution -- "well below walk away" | Ruemmler at Wigdor offices until after 6 PM |
| Nov 23, 2018 | Apple Watch Hermes gift ordered | $1,399 watch, same week as Miami Herald series |
| Jan 3, 2019 | Ruemmler receives Apple Watch: "Love it" | Post-Miami Herald relationship continues |
| Jan 9, 2019 | Epstein iMessage: "kathy for breakfast tomorrow" (EFTA00509013) | Latest known planned meeting; post-Miami Herald |
| Jan 18, 2019 | 2019 Trust signed -- Ruemmler REMOVED as Trustee | Only Indyke and Kahn remain |
| May 21, 2019 | "Re: Jeffrey Epstein" email | Active discussion about Epstein 2 months before arrest |
| July 6, 2019 | Epstein arrested |
| 2020 | Ruemmler appointed Goldman Sachs General Counsel |
KEY FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS
1. Duration, Depth, and Fiduciary Duty
The documented relationship spans at minimum 5 years (July 2014 to May 2019), with direct email correspondence, calendar entries, and trust documents covering July 2014 through January 2019. This was not a casual acquaintance but a sustained, intimate personal, professional, and fiduciary relationship. Ruemmler served as a named Trustee on Epstein's 2018 Trust (May-October 2018 at minimum), with legal authority over his assets.
2. Ruemmler as Active Participant
The documents show Ruemmler was not merely a passive recipient of Epstein's overreach. She:
- Initiated contact ("I have another idea")
- Shared photos (St. James Park)
- Provided her personal cell phone number
- Sought Epstein's intelligence about job opportunities
- Visited his home for lunch (July 2016)
- Used his Paris apartment and staff
- Was discussed by name within Epstein's inner circle (Richard Kahn, Bella Klein, Lesley Groff)
3. Political Risk Acknowledged and Managed
Epstein explicitly recognized that Ruemmler's association with him could:
- Damage her reputation as a "role model for women"
- Create "unnecessary implication" linking Epstein to Clinton and Obama
- Be exploited by "publicity seeking lawyers" representing Epstein's victims
Despite this acknowledgment, the relationship continued for years afterward.
4. Goldman Sachs General Counsel Implications
Ruemmler's 2020 appointment as Goldman Sachs General Counsel came after years of documented communication with a convicted sex offender who was a Goldman Sachs client (Epstein's financial accounts were managed through several major banks). The November 2017 "your Nigerian" exchange shows Epstein was actively coaching Ruemmler on a hiring opportunity that may or may not have been related to this eventual appointment (the 3-year gap between the exchange and the Goldman Sachs appointment is notable).
5. Material Benefits
Ruemmler received concrete material benefits including free use of Epstein's Paris luxury apartment, personal driver, personal chef services, and social introductions to high-value contacts (Nobel Committee chair, unidentified "Ken," etc.).
6. Bilateral Information Exchange
Epstein consulted Ruemmler for her legal expertise on federal proceedings (Mueller investigation, sealed indictments), while she sought his input on career opportunities (job offers, hiring decisions). This reciprocal exchange of professional information and advice characterized the relationship's practical utility for both parties.
DS9/DS11 EXPANDED FINDINGS (Full-Text Corpus Revisit)
Trustee of the Jeffrey E. Epstein 2018 Trust
Ruemmler was a named Trustee on the Jeffrey E. Epstein 2018 Trust, alongside Darren K. Indyke and Richard D. Kahn:
- EFTA00099449 (DS9): Trust agreement: "DARREN K. INDYKE, RICHARD D. KAHN, and KATHERYN H. RUEMMLER, as Trustees" -- dated May 8, 2018. Signature page bears notarized "Kathryn H. Ruemmler, Trustee."
- EFTA00099447 (DS9): First Amendment to 2018 Trust (October 2018): Ruemmler still listed as Trustee. This amendment added provisions for Karyna Shuliak's distributions.
- The 2019 Trust (dated January 18, 2019) lists only Indyke and Kahn as trustees. Ruemmler was removed between October 2018 and January 2019 -- coinciding with the Miami Herald's November 28, 2018 "Perversion of Justice" series.
This is a formal fiduciary duty, not merely a social connection. Ruemmler was legally empowered to manage Epstein's assets during this period.
20+ Calendar Entries: Relationship Began July 2014
The DS9 Lesley Groff calendar corpus reveals at least 20 previously undocumented in-person meetings, extending the documented relationship start date from September 2014 to July 11, 2014 (EFTA00284924: "1:00pm Lunch w/Kathy Ruemmler") -- just two months after she left the White House. Key entries include:
- Jul 11, 2014: 10:15am Leon Black, 1:00pm Kathy Ruemmler (same day)
- Aug 19, 2014: "12:00pm Lunch w/Kathy Ruemmler (MM) Sushi, Avocado Rolls"
- Jan 21, 2015: "8:00pm Appt w/Kathy Ruemmler (snacks)"
- Jul 19-21, 2015: "Kathy Ruemmler & Ariane de Rothschild along w/Setvine? Hamad? Cynthia? Henri? Summers? Shabaz?" -- multi-day meeting with tentative guest list
- Sep 28, 2015: "8 for dinner . ehud, nilli terje mongolian pres. peter attia. kathy ruemmler. mongolian fm." -- dinner with the President of Mongolia, Ehud Barak, and Terje Rod-Larsen
- Oct 13, 2015: 11:00am Ruemmler, 2:00pm Leon Black, 4:30pm Ruemmler (two meetings same day, bracketing Black)
- Jan 14, 2016: "Kathy Ruemmler is on the 1pm shuttle from DC to NY tomorrow...she will come straight from LGA to the house for around 3:30 meeting with Ariane, Cynthia, Marc"
- Feb 13, 2016: Mandarin Oriental spa booking: "Ruemmler Kathy, Saturday, February 13, 2016, 01:30 PM, Therapeutic - 80 Minutes" (EFTA00283634)
- Apr 9, 2018: Ruemmler to Groff: "I am going to come by and see Jeffrey this afternoon. Would 4 pm be a good time?" (EFTA00471886)
Wigdor Law / MeToo Defense Cases
DS11 contains the complete Wigdor Law case exchange (May and October 2018), confirming Ruemmler was actively handling sexual misconduct defense cases while discussing them with Epstein:
- EFTA02449539 (May 4, 2018): Ruemmler: "Effort to go off the grid totally thwarted by another Me too crisis -- this one for Ernst & Young." Epstein: "besides casucci. another wigdor!"
- EFTA02449716: Ruemmler: "Of course, I get brought in AFTER Casucci debacle." Epstein: "your new calling."
- EFTA02620106 (Oct 22-23, 2018): Ruemmler: "Resolved it for a price well below the client's walk away so they are thrilled." Epstein: "cool, how did the wigdor end up?" Ruemmler: "No because I was at Wigdor until after 6 pm. Meeting him tomorrow. Google looks like 11/1."
Apple Watch Hermes Gift (November-December 2018)
DS9 and DS11 document Epstein's mass Apple Watch gifting operation in November-December 2018:
- EFTA00285604 / EFTA02262535: Ruemmler selected the most expensive option: a $1,399 Apple Watch Hermes ("40 mm, stainless Hermes with bleu indigo swift leather double tour").
- EFTA02264159: Richard Kahn to Groff: "funny how the girls are the big $$ Hermes spenders plus James (1/2 girl) and Kathy.." Groff: "I knew Kathy would want Hermes."
- The watch was billed to HBRK Associates (Epstein's entity) and shipped to Ruemmler's new NYC apartment. She confirmed receipt January 3, 2019: "Yes!!! I got it yesterday. Love it."
- This gift was sent November 23, 2018 -- the same week as the Miami Herald "Perversion of Justice" series (November 28, 2018).
Ruemmler's Financial Records in FBI Possession
EFTA00810614 (DS9): A complete Merrill Lynch portfolio review for "Kathryn Ruemmler" dated February 4, 2019, totaling $4,414,396 across four accounts. Its presence in the EFTA corpus confirms investigators were examining her finances.Ruemmler as Latham & Watkins Attorney on Rothschild NPA
EFTA00590334 (DS9): DOJ Tax Division letter addressed to "Kathryn Ruemmler, Christopher Clark, Latham & Watkins LLP" regarding Edmond de Rothschild (Suisse) SA Non-Prosecution Agreement, December 10, 2015. Signature block: "KATHRYN RUEMMLER, Latham & Watkins LLP." This confirms Ruemmler, introduced to the Rothschilds by Epstein, was the named attorney who approved the $45.245M penalty NPA.TOTAL DOCUMENT INVENTORY
Primary Email Correspondence (OCR Database)
Redaction Database (Additional References)
METHODOLOGY
All content extracted from three FBI databases:
- the OCR text extraction database (table: ocr_results) -- primary email text
- the primary document text database (table: redactions) -- hidden/redacted content
- the image catalog database (table: images) -- image text content
Search terms used: Ruemmler, Kathy R, Rue*ler (wildcard for OCR variants), Jagland, Nobel, Goldman Sachs, White House Counsel, Richard Kahn, Bella Klein, Ruth Marcus, Manafort, Nigerian, Benjamin, sealed indictment, defense counsel, Clinton Obama, La Reserve, valdson, St James Park, HBB, first choice, PW.
Cross-reference searches conducted for all known associates and entities mentioned in the primary documents.
Report compiled from FBI EFTA document databases. All quotations are verbatim from OCR-processed FBI records with OCR artifacts noted where present.