Former Google CEO Gets Booed at Graduation Ceremony Over Remarks About AI

Eric Schmidt told University of Arizona graduates that artificial intelligence would transform the workforce, prompting audible backlash.

Special Competitive Studies Project Chair Eric Schmidt speaks during the AI+Expo Special Competitive Studies Project in Washington on June 3, 2025. Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times

Thousands of students graduating from the University of Arizona booed former Google CEO Eric Schmidt for his comments on artificial intelligence (AI) during his commencement address on May 15.

Schmidt, who was head of the internet giant for a decade, spoke at length to approximately 9,000 students about the rise of the computer and the evolution of technology.