In Minneapolis, the debate over autonomous vehicles took a sharp turn when City Council Member Jason Chavez voiced concerns about their impact on local wildlife, particularly cats. Chavez claimed Waymo’s self-driving cars were responsible for cat fatalities, suggesting that human operators should be mandated in these vehicles.
Chavez stated, “I will say cats have been killed, and cats have been killed by these autonomous vehicles,” emphasizing his personal concern for his pet. He drew attention to videos allegedly showing cats harmed by these cars, stating, “Literally cats being killed by these vehicles.”
The proposed ordinance requires human operators in all autonomous vehicles and demands special licensing. Despite passing narrowly, Mayor Jacob Frey announced plans to veto it. Frey argued that the measure “doesn’t make sense,” indicating the city aims to continue supporting “innovative technology” like autonomous transport options. Although acknowledging safety issues, Frey dismissed what he considered a “backdoor ban”.
As Waymo vehicles become more common, supporters express concerns over increased costs if human operators are required. Opponents worry about safety risks and potential job losses. Chavez’s comments sparked swift criticism on social media, where users chastised him for exaggerating the situation and ignoring more urgent city issues.
Central to online backlash, Townhall columnist Dustin Grage faulted Chavez’s focus, remarking, “The Minneapolis City Council wants to require a human in driverless vehicles because cats are being ‘murdered’ by them.” He also noted Chavez’s salary, hinting at misplaced priorities.
Other commentators echoed Grage’s sentiment. Gunther Eagleman sarcastically pointed out, “LOL! MINNEAPOLIS HAS FOUND ITS REAL CRISIS, AND IT’S ROBOT CARS ‘MURDERING’ CATS,” urging attention to broader concerns like crime and fraud.
Local leaders were further criticized for their management of city affairs. Eagleman noted, “A council member in a city that let rioters burn down a police precinct and watched a $250 million fraud scheme” now focusing on cat safety over autonomous vehicles.
Others questioned economic disparities, with Jennifer DeJournett asking, “Why is a city council member making $110,000 when families and seniors are getting priced out of their homes? Where is the equality in that?”
Conversely, proponents of autonomous vehicles argued they do have measures to protect animals. Journalist Zaid Jilani shared, “Fwiw I’ve been in a self-driving Tesla that stopped for cats to cross the road, and Waymo is a lot more advanced,” while Dealer Teamwork CEO Sean Stapleton maintained, “My FSD Tesla avoids animals on the road.”
Fox News Digital attempted to contact Chavez for further comment. Kiera McDonald serves as a Production Assistant for Fox News Digital.