In November 2025, former partner Michelle Ritter filed a lawsuit against Eric Schmidt alleging sexual assault, physical abuse, and digital surveillance. The lawsuit claims Schmidt raped her on a yacht in November 2021 and at Burning Man 2023, photographed her without consent while nude, physically shoved her leaving bruises, and used a 'backdoor' to spy on employees. Ritter is seeking at least $100 million in damages. Schmidt's attorney called the claims 'false and defamatory' and part of a business dispute. The case follows a December 2024 domestic violence restraining order that was withdrawn after a financial settlement.
person
Eric Schmidt
Former CEO of Google (2001-2011) and Executive Chairman of Alphabet (2011-2017). Major Democratic donor and advisor on AI policy to the Pentagon. Founded defense AI companies including White Stork and backs Rebellion Defense.
Career History
Track Record
Eric Schmidt characterized Trump's research funding cuts as an 'attack on science' that could chill tech development as competition from China ramps up. At the AI+Biotechnology Summit, he said 'This madness will eventually end because it's too stupid not to fix.'
Sources: Yahoo News(opens in new tab)
Eric Schmidt founded White Stork, a startup developing low-cost AI-powered kamikaze drones for Ukraine. The drones cost approximately $400 each with small explosive payloads. Schmidt has invested over a billion dollars in defense AI startups including White Stork, Rebellion Defense, and Istari. He signed a memorandum with Ukraine's Defense Ministry on strategic partnership.
Eric Schmidt chaired the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence from 2018-2021, advising Congress on AI spending. During this period, he personally invested over $2 billion in AI tech startups. Critics noted his company Rebellion Defense was winning military AI contracts while he advised on defense AI policy, representing a significant conflict of interest.