Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt booed at Arizona commencement over AI, sex harassment claims from much-younger girlfriend
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt was booed during his commencement speech at the University of Arizona amid backlash over sexual harassment allegations made by his ex-girlfriend, Michelle Ritter. Students protested his appearance, citing concerns over platforming individuals accused of abuse and the impact of AI on future job markets. Schmidt acknowledged societal fears about technology but urged graduates to shape the future of artificial intelligence.
- ▪Eric Schmidt was booed by students during his University of Arizona commencement speech on May 16, 2026.
- ▪Schmidt faces a sexual harassment lawsuit from Michelle Ritter, his former lover and business partner, who is 40 years younger than him.
- ▪Student groups distributed flyers and urged attendees to turn their backs or boo in protest of Schmidt's selection as speaker.
- ▪Schmidt addressed the complexities of AI and automation, acknowledging public fears about job loss and societal fragmentation.
- ▪He denied any wrongdoing and maintained that young people must adapt to technological change rather than resist it.
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US News Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt booed at Arizona commencement over AI, sex harassment claims from much-younger girlfriend By Anthony Blair Published May 17, 2026, 8:32 a.m. ET Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt was roundly booed by students at the University of Arizona’s graduation Saturday — following backlash over his selection as commencement speaker over sex abuse allegations from his much-younger ex girlfriend. Tech billionaire Schmidt, 71, was discussing artificial intelligence and automation when students began jeering him, Business Insider reported. However, he had been expecting a hostile reception regardless of what he said following allegations of rape and sexual harassment made in a lawsuit by ex Michelle Ritter.
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