Waymo co-CEO on robotaxi vandalism: ‘We’re not standing for it’

Waymo, the leading robotaxi operator in the U.S., has faced repeated vandalism attacks on its vehicles over the past year, most recently in Los Angeles. Co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana condemned these acts as criminal and unacceptable, emphasizing the company’s commitment to working closely with law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable. She stressed that damaging property, regardless of ownership, will not be tolerated. The vandalism is partly driven by broader public concerns over privacy, surveillance, and resistance to tech companies amid heightened political tensions during the second Trump administration. Mawakana reaffirmed Waymo’s stance against complying with government requests for vehicle footage that are deemed overly broad or unlawful. To improve community relations and change perceptions, Waymo has introduced local artists’ designs on some of its cars. Despite these efforts, the company continues to collaborate with first responders to address vandalism, highlighting that such acts do not enhance public safety and are unwelcome in any city.