Minneapolis City Council Member’s Remarks on Waymo Cars Killing Cats Spark Criticism

A Minneapolis city council member, Jason Chavez, faced widespread criticism on social media after expressing concerns about Waymo autonomous vehicles allegedly killing cats. Chavez urged officials to mandate a human operator in self-driving cars due to potential threats to cats.

“I will say cats have been killed and cats have been killed by these autonomous vehicles,” Chavez said. “I have a cat, I don’t want my cat getting killed because of these autonomous vehicles.”

The ordinance, narrowly approved on Thursday, requires a human operator and a special license for all autonomous vehicles. However, its future remains uncertain since Mayor Jacob Frey plans to veto it, stating it “doesn’t make sense” and emphasizing the city’s commitment to embracing innovative technology, including transportation options. Frey acknowledged safety concerns but opposes a “backdoor ban” on these vehicles.

As Waymo vehicles become more common, supporters argue that requiring a human operator would essentially ban autonomous taxi services and lead to higher fares. Opponents insist the technology poses safety risks and may displace jobs.

Social media users mocked Chavez’s remarks, claiming he exaggerated the issue and diverted attention from more pressing priorities in Minneapolis. Dustin Grage, a Townhall columnist, shared his thoughts on X, highlighting Chavez’s salary and calling the situation “the cat genocide.” Conservative commentator Gunther Eagleman criticized focusing on this issue rather than larger problems like crime and fraud.

Criticism extended beyond Chavez’s remarks, with Fox News Digital columnist David Marcus and Three Rivers Park Commissioner Jennifer DeJournett questioning the council member’s salary and priorities amid rising housing costs and taxes.

Various social media posts argued that autonomous vehicles, like Waymo and Tesla, are advanced enough to avoid animals. Journalist Zaid Jilani and Dealer Teamwork CEO Sean Stapleton supported this perspective, comparing their experiences with self-driving cars.