Waymo, the robotaxi company controlled by Alphabet, is pulling back in three metro areas. This decision follows, in part, the threat of nationwide protests during #NoKings, protests targeting President Donald Trump and his policies. The decision is a reaction to a wave of recent protests that have escalated into civil disorder. In Los Angeles, as the mood turns towards healing, tempers still are flared after demonstrator clashes with police.
As protesters stormed offices, last weekend saw unprecedented protests in Los Angeles. Thousands of Americans stood united to raise their voices in opposition to the Trump administration’s unprecedented attack on immigrants. Demonstrators raised a ruckus over the administration’s dubious policies, including artful vandalism on Waymo vehicles. During the protests, protesters burned five of these autonomous vehicles. Furthermore, they vandalized other monuments with anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) slogans.
In response, Waymo has taken the strong precautionary measure of pulling its services completely out of Los Angeles. Further, it has been forced to scale back its operations in cities where it has come under attack—San Francisco, Austin, Atlanta, and most recently, Phoenix. This tactical retreat is meant to protect the safety of riders and cars alike during this time of increased hostility.
In Los Angeles, the use of force was taken a step further as the National Guard was called in—including against the will of local leaders. The National Guard’s presence and heavy-handed response further convolutes the string of protests that have followed since. For the last 48 hours, a scene has erupted as protesters take to the streets battling police officers.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported statements from the city’s fire chief regarding the handling of fires during civil unrest:
“In a period of civil unrest, we will not try to extinguish those fires unless they are up against a building.” – San Francisco Chronicle
This quote captures just how difficult the dilemma city leaders and first responders are facing. They need to balance public safety against the backdrop of these protests that have continued.
Waymo’s decision to limit its services reflects an awareness of the potential risks involved in continuing operations during such volatile times. We commend the company for taking these steps while continuing to protect operational integrity and customer safety in areas still affected by this winter’s storms.
