Eric Schmidt Booed at Arizona Commencement Over AI
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- Eric Schmidt was booed multiple times while delivering the University of Arizona’s 2026 commencement address.
- Schmidt warned that AI could amplify worst instincts and urged graduates to shape its development, a stance that drew further boos.
- University of Arizona spokesperson Mitch Zak said Schmidt was invited for his “extraordinary leadership” and ongoing philanthropic contributions.
- Gloria Caulfield was earlier booed at a separate commencement speech, indicating a broader pattern of audience dissent toward high‑profile speakers.
Why it matters: Graduates and AI skeptics gain a louder voice to challenge tech elites, while Schmidt and Google lose credibility with a generation wary of AI’s societal impact.
