Overview
The United States stands at a crossroads. Since the 2000 election and G.W. Bush took office, the world has changed in ways we could not have imagined. While the necessity for change is clear, solutions remain unclear. As Americans, we sense the vital importance of Election ’08—it is another chance to turn the tide in many areas of our collective experience.
Astrology is an excellent and reliable tool in approaching the larger picture beyond our normal human preference and prejudice. This article is by no means a complete analysis of the candidates or a prediction of final results. A veil of uncertainty surrounds this election as evidenced by numerous contradictory predictions on the internet. I offer insights as a result of examining charts throughout the year. My hope is to light the way of understanding at this most momentous time in our history.
The reason for uncertainty is a major planetary alignment occurring exactly on Election Day, November 4 at 8:35 am—Saturn, the planet of tradition, opposes Uranus, the planet of change. Old ways meet new ways in the cross currents of social transformation. The tension has been mounting throughout the year, and reaches a crisis point on Election Day. The trend carries over into 2009 as Saturn makes two more oppositions to Uranus on February 5 and September 15. Yes indeed, a wild ride for about a year. Absolutely challenging, a little scary, but so necessary in the long run.
This opposition of Saturn and Uranus just happens to feed into the United States chart. By Divine Providence, this major planetary pair joins the US Neptune at 22 degrees of Virgo throughout 2009. Neptune is a wonderful planet for meditation and spiritual expansion. At its best, Neptune inspires; at its worst, Neptune is illusion, escapism and deception.
Since Saturn is the planet of reality (always giving the bottom line), illusions are falling away. There is no way our government can hide Truth from the populace at this juncture. Additionally, Neptune rules oil, so conservation and solutions to the energy crisis are in our face. This can stimulate plenty of fear in the mass consciousness, so take note and consider it your job to stay centered.
An ongoing theme of 2008 is a revisiting of the 60s, a decade of radical awakening. Astrologically, Uranus joined Pluto in the mid-60s, and a revolution was underway. The ideals of racial and gender equality were seeded into society. "Make love, not war" was the mantra. The seeds for a whole new way of life were planted.
This year and next, planetary cycles culminate, and society is halfway through a larger Uranus cycle of 84 years. In light of this, we are assessing direction as children born in the 60s emerge on the world stage. Enter Sen. Barack Obama (1961) and Gov. Sarah Palin (1964), incredible mirrors of our collective experience.
What were you doing in the 60s? For many of us, this election stimulates memories, goals and aspirations of youth. Latent ideals and buried emotions are surfacing. Collective and national wounds are open, needing some tender, loving care. I encourage you to spend some time with this. Individually and collectively, we are being gifted with healing.
Another planetary phase feeding directly into current challenges is Pluto. Defining whole generations, Pluto is leaving Sagittarius to enter Capricorn. This occurs exactly on November 26, although we have been feeling the effects all year.
Since 1995, Pluto has been running through Sagittarius, the most expansive and risk-taking of zodiac signs. Enter Capricorn, the most prudent, conservative and realistic of zodiac signs. Greed’s underbelly of waste and arrogance, privilege and manipulation is exposed. The shift is clear; we can feel it. Rampant, uncontrolled spending and expansion is stopping, common sense is taking charge. Again, this feeds directly into the US chart. Overhaul of financial institutions and government agencies is a long-term theme with major adjustments for years to come. In fact, Pluto remains in Capricorn until 2024, surely enough time to get back on track.
Another prominent planetary phase appears in the US chart. In July 2006, Mars, the planet of aggression, began a retrograde movement in the US chart. This is the first Mars retrograde in US history. No wonder there is a tug of war between global interests and challenges at home. Mars, the weary warrior, is begging to retreat. Progressed Mars in Libra conjuncts the US Saturn in Libra for decades to come.
This country sees itself as the Libra peacemaker, and this image desperately needs rejuvenation. Libra supports equality, mediation and diplomacy. The US is asked to resume its primary role of being a leader in peaceful resolution rather then aggression. The old model of resolution through conflict is antiquated. While this planetary combination calls for necessary change, it promotes the underlying purpose this country was founded upon.
As you might suspect, Neptune, the planet of glamour, casts its spell of illusion over the election. Neptune transits Aquarian skies for a number of years, 1998–2012. This is a long-term phase emphasizing brotherhood/sisterhood and global community. Neptune illuminates the Aquarian path of viable solutions, progress, world harmony, freedom and equality.
In 2006, Neptune moved across Obama’s ascendant. On November 2, Neptune goes direct on Palin’s Aquarian Sun. Both of these candidates are coming into the limelight. Neptune contributes to sensationalism and accusations of celebrity status. Each party is attempting to cast a shadow on the other. This is stirring up great fear in the electorate, making it difficult for people to ascertain the truth of each candidate.
Four months ago, I awoke with a clear message, "There will be drastic change this autumn." Honestly, it shook me up for days. But, after setting aside fear and considering the implications, I realize the changes are all around us. Uranus is the wild card. It is the most unpredictable of planets. Call me superstitious, but predicting a winner now is tempting fate. Better to keep the suspense. In a very close election, when the scales can tip in one direction or the other, every vote counts.
In light of this, allow me to present the candidates from a universal and star-studded view.
Barack Obama
August 4, 1961, 7:24 pm, Honolulu, HI
When Obama’s campaign released his birth certificate earlier this year, astrologers discovered Aquarius on the ascendant. Not only does this put his Leo Sun in the house of people, but it drives home the point that Obama is progressive, solution-oriented and community-minded. He is in tune with the new energies streaming upon the planet as the Age of Aquarius dawns. His life story gives him a unique perspective into many aspects of our common culture. Aquarians are humanitarian, equalitarian and global-minded. It is the rare individual who embodies the Aquarian ideal of equality, and inspires others to be their best.
Obama announced at the convention, "I am not doing this for me; I am doing it for you." Those hearing this statement knew it came from his depths, and Obama’s chart backs up his sincerity. Leos are known for being magnanimous, charismatic, enthusiastic leaders. Their life purpose is leadership through example and inspiration rather then control and selfishness.
The Aquarius/Leo polarity is the most misunderstood and important of astrological principles at this juncture in history. Repeatedly, we see people on the world stage dramatically living the upside and downside of this polarity.
Power vs. Force by David Hawkins has an excellent chapter on Power in Politics. To quote, "Politicians operating out of expediency, rule by force after gaining their position through the force of persuasion. States[people] represent true power, ruling by inspiration, teaching by example and standing for self-evident principles. Statesmen invoke the nobility that resides within all [humans] and unifies them through what can best be termed the heart."
With all of his Aquarian idealism and Leo charisma, Obama has Mars in Virgo to get the job done. Mars in Virgo is pragmatic, thorough and service-oriented. Mars in harmonious aspect with Saturn endows Barack with discipline, patience, efficiency and fortitude. Obama instinctively knows how to ground ideals into practical reality. This is a predominant character trait.
Obama’s Moon is in Gemini. Of all the zodiac signs, Gemini has the ability to connect with other people based on similarities rather then differences. It makes him an excellent orator, inquisitive, responsive and adaptable to new points of view. Obama’s Gemini Moon sextiles his Mercury in Leo. The Moon is associated with women; he credits mother, wife and daughters as a major inspiration. This planetary combination makes it possible to understand emotion, listen well and speak to issues of security on many levels.
Add to this Obama’s Venus in Cancer exactly joins the US Venus and Jupiter. His heart is attuned to the heart of this country. He knows the blessings of this country on a very intimate, deep level and doesn’t take prosperity for granted. He knows how to actualize the opportunities inherent in America’s vast abundant, potential.
Joseph Biden
November 20, 1942, 8:30 am, Scranton, PA
While Obama is front and center, out there in a very Leo way, Biden is behind the scenes. With four planets in Scorpio, Biden is a powerhouse. Scorpios are known for their tenacity, depth and intensity. Never content with a pat answer, Biden’s Mercury in Scorpio looks beneath the surface of things to discern truth. This makes him very direct, and with Mars in Scorpio, Biden is known for his blunt, no-nonsense approach.
Scorpios have excellent intuitions. They know the value of timing and the power of strategy. Scorpios are very loyal, but they do not give their loyalty freely. They hold themselves to high standards, and others have to earn a Scorpio’s respect. Biden’s Moon in Taurus gives him a practical, grounded, security-oriented side, adding to his strength and tenacity.
A Sagittarius ascendant lightens up Biden’s chart. The deep intensity of Scorpio is softened by a humorous, philosophical, upbeat perspective. Sagittarians are global citizens. Biden brings his experience as head of the Foreign Relations Committee to the ticket. No doubt Biden has been greatly influenced by Pluto’s transit in Sagittarius since 1995.
Pluto tests the ego and purifies motivation. One that has successfully undergone Pluto’s trials knows the power of truth. Biden’s progressed Mars is in Sagittarius, and the final throes of campaigning bring out his persuasive, determined side. His stamina is excellent, and he is able to call upon energy reserves. September, October and November are decisive months for him to be on the world stage.
Together, Obama and Biden are quite a team. While there are many factors in a relationship, one of the outstanding connections is their Lunar Nodes. The nodes are the karmic axis of the chart. They symbolically represent where the soul has been and where it is growing. It shows the past as well as the future. Their Lunar Nodes are exactly lined up, within 2 degrees of each other, and in the Aquarius/Leo polarity.
As well as showing a strong karmic connection, it shows a similarity in lesson patterns. In this case, they know Aquarius inside and out. The ideals of Aquarius are real to them. They have the ability to stand outside of things to discern an overall picture of how systems and groups of people come together and work together.
Another strong connection is Biden’s Saturn and Uranus in Gemini, joining Obama’s Moon. Remember, Gemini is the communicator. Obama made an important point when he chose Biden. He said Biden helps him consider all points of view, a trait he considers essential in a running mate. Saturn in Gemini shows wisdom cultivated from experience. Biden brings his many years as Senator into the campaign. On an emotional level, Obama absorbs, respects and learns from Biden’s experience. This is another strong and positive characteristic of their interaction.
John McCain
August 29, 1936, 8:56 am, Coco Solo Air Base, Panama
McCain is a Virgo with Sun, Neptune and Venus in the zodiac sign of service. This makes him industrious and methodical, detail-oriented and intelligent. Virgos are generally thoughtful and contemplative.
His Saturn in Pisces is opposite these Virgo planets, indicating his share of hardship as a POW. He has seen into the harshest and most difficult of human tragedies, and he is alive to tell the story. One of his life lessons is to balance realism with idealism.
McCain’s Mercury (planet of communication) is in Libra (zodiac sign of partnership). This combination makes McCain a team player. He prefers partnership, and marriage has played a huge role in his life. Libra embraces a variety of viewpoints, and this makes it possible for McCain to have friends across party lines.
He believes it is possible to join in a non-partisan way and reform the government. McCain’s ascendant is Libra, so he truly sees himself as a peacemaker. One of the keys to this election is the debates occurring during Mercury Retrograde in Libra. This may favor McCain, or it can further his image as another changeable politician.
Speaking of reform, "maverick" McCain has the most rebellious of planetary combinations in his life blueprint. Mars square Uranus makes him a fighter, a true rebel. This has not been easy for McCain within the Republican Party, and it has taken the better part of 2008, and his choice of Palin, to win over the staunch conservative base. Even the sudden, dramatic and surprising choice of Palin shows McCain’s Mars/Uranus energetic. He acts intensely, on the spur of the moment, and he can change course of action quickly.
McCain has Mars in Leo, giving him a strong will and leadership abilities. A theme emerges here—both presidential candidates have a predominance of Virgo and Leo. Obama is a Leo with Mars in Virgo. When competition is taken out of the picture, this is a very supportive combination between candidates. From a larger perspective, the country is calling for practical leadership and an ability to put service to others before self-interest.
Next, we take into consideration McCain’s Moon in Capricorn. This is a more conservative, prudent and traditional position. Family heritage is important to him, and he walks in his father’s military footsteps. Capricorn Moon gives McCain an understanding of government and politics. His Capricorn nature has helped him climb the mountaintop of success, slowly but surely.
Of all the candidates, McCain has the most challenging planetary trends throughout autumn. The Saturn/Uranus opposition on November 4 aligns with McCain’s Neptune and Saturn. This shows a sudden release after a long build-up of tension. It requires McCain to be very flexible and responsive to change. This unique planetary grouping affects McCain’s health, work, ideals and faith.
Sarah Palin
February 11, 1964, 4:40 pm, Sandpoint, ID
Sarah Palin was born during the 60s revolution. The musical Hair introduced the concept of ages into the American mainstream with their hit song, "This is the Dawning of the Age of Aquarius." Palin has the signature Uranus/Pluto conjunction and a major alignment of planets in Aquarius. She is a double Aquarian, meaning her Sun and Moon were in Aquarius at birth. She has three other planets in Aquarius—Mercury, Mars and Saturn. In other words, Palin has 50% of her chart in Aquarius.
This is a unique and surprising combination. Is Palin more progressive then she appears to be? Where are the Aquarian ideals of altruism, social harmony and global connection? Wait a minute, belief defines our reality.
Palin’s Jupiter is in her area of religion, showing her deep, fundamental Christian roots. In the media coverage of Palin’s religion, an image remains in my mind as one of the most radical and extreme ideas ever. It was a brief news clip of the US being blown up and true believers escaping to Alaska to found a new civilization.
Palin is very passionate about the values she holds to be true. And this is Mars and Saturn we are considering. Mars is aggressive, energetic and competitive. Saturn is traditional, conservative and authoritarian. At the moment of birth, these two powerful planets joined the Sun. This planetary alignment makes it clear—Palin’s competitive nature enables her to champion causes in a cool, detached and calculated way. Radical reformer … Aquarians show up in all sorts of guises.
Where does Palin’s leadership abilities come in? Palin has Leo ascendant, so she sees herself as the leader and easily takes charge. Leo ascendant gives her a very dramatic and charismatic personality. Additionally, Palin has two planets in Aries—Venus and Jupiter. She is truly a pioneer, and the strength of Aries supports her motivation to initiate change.
In terms of the team, McCain and Palin have some fascinating planetary combinations. While Obama/Biden have the same Lunar Node position, showing a synergy and similarity in life lessons, McCain and Palin are opposites. This shows a definite karmic connection. They are together to balance the scales of justice, and they mirror each other.
Palin’s South Lunar Node in Capricorn shows she has been in business/government/authority positions lifetime after lifetime. I suspect her name is already in the history books as a name we would recognize. This time around, Sarah Palin is here to do leadership in a different way. She is learning lessons of authority and power. In this life, Palin is to embrace a more nurturing, caring lifestyle, and it is very important for her to be a mother in addition to fulfilling ambition.
In Conclusion
Lightworkers Unite!
At this most momentous time in our history, crosscurrents of change beckon us to act. The challenge is clear: It is time for conscience and compassion, truth and integrity to manifest fully. Consider how fortunate we are to have understanding, when so many people are caught in confusion and fear. The old order does not give way easily, nor step aside gracefully. It is considered normal to put up smoke screens and call it a fight.
2012 is four, short years from now. I have heard it called, "the peak of the bonus time." The human race is birthing into its full potential. Hearts are opening, love is flowing, and we are making our deep connection to Earth as a launching pad into cosmic consciousness.
The light and love of Creation is increasing day-by-day. Are we ready? This is our chance to envision, pray, chant, meditate and cocreate a clear path for the United States and planet Earth.
Please ask your heart for guidance in how best to serve with the gift of your consciousness.
Belinda C. Dunn is a professional astrologer with more than 30 years experience. Click here for her monthly astrology column at Living NEWStories. You can also check out her website for more articles and information, including a free e-newsletter.
