Epstein’s Gifts to Former Obama’s Lawyer Revealed

WASHINGTON — After her time at the White House, former President Obama’s attorney Kathryn Ruemmler developed a friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. Records released by the Justice Department on Friday show that Ruemmler received extravagant gifts from Epstein, including a $9,400 Hermès handbag and a spa getaway at the Four Seasons in Washington, D.C.

Currently the general counsel at Goldman Sachs, Ruemmler indulged in a “half-day” spa session at a Georgetown resort in August 2016. She mentioned to a colleague, “She won the lawsuit, so she needs a little pampering.”

In fact, she noted, “Thank you! I’m going to be there on Sunday morning at 10 am. I’m going to get a massage and then a facial.” That same day, she accepted a job offer for up to $1,000, and her staffer responded enthusiastically.

Following this, in September 2016, Epstein’s assistant was asked to ensure that Ruemmler received the expensive handbag. In her reaction, she exclaimed, “Oh my God! I’m dying. It’s so beautiful.”

The beloved handbag wasn’t the first gift from Epstein; it was preceded by flowers sent to her office in August 2016, and a Thanksgiving gift in November 2018—a Hermès-branded Apple Watch worth $1,300. Ruemmler expressed delight over the gifts, calling Epstein “really sweet.”

Ruemmler didn’t hide her affection for Hermès, sharing that if she had her choice, she’d wear a specific model every day, acknowledging that sportier accessories would only be worn more casually on weekends.

Email exchanges from 2014 to 2019 further indicate that Epstein’s housekeeper had plans to give her a ring along with a wine bottle and a card.

These communications raise questions about Ruemmler’s previous statements, in which she claimed to CNN that she was “not compensated” for her services to Epstein.

It’s important to note that all of this transpired after Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to soliciting a minor for prostitution. A spokesman for Goldman Sachs commented, “It is well known that Mr. Epstein often provided unsolicited favors and gifts to numerous business associates.”

In March 2019, a text exchanged between former Trump strategist Steve Bannon and Epstein indicated that Ruemmler had advised Epstein on a statement concerning a future Washington Post article.

Sadly, Epstein was found dead in a Manhattan federal prison on August 10, 2019, following his arrest for sex trafficking. Investigations later ruled his death a suicide.

Correspondence also revealed that Ruemmler had sought career advice from Epstein regarding a successor for then-Attorney General Eric Holder. Epstein advised her to “talk to your boss.”

In an unsettling exchange from September 2014, Epstein warned her to be cautious as she formed new habits. “Most girls don’t have to worry about this nonsense,” she replied, to which Epstein ominously responded, “Be careful as you make new old habits.”

Ruemmler later withdrew her interest in a position and chose to stay at the law firm Latham & Watkins. She has not commented on the recent revelations.