Minneapolis City Council Member’s Comments on Waymo Cars and Cats Stir Public Reaction

A Minneapolis city council member faced ridicule on social media after making remarks about Waymo cars allegedly killing cats. Jason Chavez, speaking to fellow council members, stated that autonomous vehicles have caused the deaths of cats, highlighting concerns from cat owners.

Chavez expressed his worry by saying, “I have a cat, I don’t want my cat getting killed because of these autonomous vehicles.” He shared a distressing experience of watching a video depicting vehicles harming cats.

The proposed ordinance, which narrowly passed, demands a human operator and a special license for all autonomous vehicles. However, its future is uncertain.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey plans to veto the proposal, stating that it “doesn’t make sense.” He emphasized the city’s commitment to embracing “innovative technology,” including new transportation options, despite safety concerns.

Social media reactions were mixed, with many criticizing Chavez’s focus on cats. Townhall columnist Dustin Grage mocked the idea, pointing out Chavez’s annual salary of $110,000 while sarcastically commenting on the “cat genocide.” Conservative commentator Gunther Eagleman joined in, stating, “MINNEAPOLIS HAS FOUND ITS REAL CRISIS, AND IT’S ROBOT CARS ‘MURDERING’ CATS.”

There were calls to address broader issues like crime and fraud, with critics labeling the focus on autonomous vehicles as a distraction. Eagleman reflected, “Minneapolis doesn’t have a driverless car problem. It has a leadership problem.”

The conversation extended to social media, where individuals noted experiences with self-driving cars avoiding animals. Journalist Zaid Jilani and Dealer Teamwork CEO Sean Stapleton shared their encounters with autonomous vehicles that stop for animals.

Fox News Digital reached out to Chavez for further comments.