Four out of ten Americans are «very» or «extremely» concerned that they or someone from their family will become a victim of the mass shooting.
These are the findings of a survey Gallup (American Institute of public opinion), held from 5 to 11 October – after October 1, the Las Vegas shooter Stephen Paddock opened fire at a music festival, killing 58 people and injuring hundreds.
This level of anxiety, the researchers say, is comparable with the data of 2015, after the mass murder in San Bernardino. We will remind, then Syed Rizwan Farooq and Malik Tashfeen has arranged shooting in a building of center for people with disabilities. 14 people were killed, more than two dozen were injured.
Only about 10% of Americans are «very concerned», 29% — «quite concerned» and 60% «not too concerned».
Interestingly, the dependence is even on political grounds. So, tell the experts of Gallup, in 2015, during the presidency of Democrat Obama, the Republicans have expressed more concern. Now, when the head of the country, Republican Donald trump, the big concern over mass shootings are supporters of the Democrats.
As for other characteristics, women, that danger scares two times more than men. Americans under the age of 55 are concerned more elderly population. Gun owners worry less than those who have no weapons.
The tragedy in Las Vegas followed by new calls for stricter legislation on firearms.
According to Gallup, Americans are not convinced that such laws will help to reduce the number of mass shootings. 41% of Americans said that changing the law would have «considerable effect»; 16% claimed that the new laws will slightly reduce the number of incidents reported, and 43% believe that new laws will not affect mass shootings.
