Lubbock’s Biggest Fear This Halloween Isn’t Ghosts—It’s Corrupt Politicians

Real-Life Fears Trump the Spooky Stuff

Here in Lubbock, we love a good scare this time of year — haunted houses, creepy clowns, and maybe a walk through Nightmare on 19th Street. But it turns out, the thing that’s really keeping folks up at night isn’t a ghostly figure or a zombie apocalypse…it’s politics.

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According to the Chapman University Survey of American Fears, the number-one fear in America for 2024 is “corrupt government officials.” Yep, that tops the list for the tenth straight year, with 69% of Americans saying they’re “afraid” or “very afraid.”

And before you think it’s one side or the other — it’s not. Chapman says this fear crosses all political lines, all regions, and all ages. No matter who’s in charge, people are nervous about who’s pulling the strings.

What Else Are We Afraid Of?

Some of the other top fears hit closer to home for folks right here on the South Plains:

• People you love getting seriously ill – 59%

• Economic or financial collapse – 58% (which jumped way up from last year)

• Cyber-terrorism – 56%

• The U.S. getting dragged into another world war – 55%

• Pollution of drinking water – also 55%

If you’ve noticed higher grocery bills or more expensive gas in Lubbock lately, it’s no surprise that money and stability are right near the top of the list.

Fear Hits Home in the Hub City

For a city that values faith, family, and Friday night football, some of these fears feel especially real. Economic worries, health concerns, and global instability are things that can impact life right here in the 806.

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Meanwhile, some classic phobias didn’t even make the top 20 — like sharks (#43), heights (#44), or flying (#64). So it looks like Lubbock’s not too worried about those things...but we are worried about what’s happening in Washington.

So this Halloween, while you’re dodging jump scares and candy wrappers, remember — the real fright for most Americans (and plenty of Lubbockites) isn’t in a haunted house…it’s in the headlines.