Generally, I take all things astrological with a grain of salt. I do recognize a few characteristic traits from my zodiac sign, but I also believe that birth dates don’t make the person. However, there’s no denying that some people are perfect representations of their sign. My Pisces friend is ruled by her emotions and almost every Capricorn I know is highly ambitious. So when I found out that Barack Obama, with his oratory prowess and regal disposition, is a Leo, I wasn’t too surprised.
If our astrological signs can affect how we work and exercise, then surely they could factor into presidential performances as well. When it comes to our most famous (and infamous) presidents, how do their placements on the zodiac chart come into play?
Barack Obama: Leo
Leos are naturally inclined toward leadership positions (Bill Clinton was also a Leo). Their confidence and drive make them feel like they could tackle any issue, big or small. That’s good news for us, since our current president has some pretty big problems on his plate. Obama’s assurance that he could unite the country and improve international relations was one reason so many rallied behind him. His straightforward, playful nature, so characteristic of Leos, was unaffected by the flurry of admiration and support that enveloped him. Even with the constant comparisons to Kennedy, one of the most beloved American presidents, he’s graceful and levelheaded. Prior to the election, many wondered if anyone could pull America out of the apathy and depression left in Bush’s wake. Looks like it took a Leo.
George W. Bush: Cancer
In some ways, Dubya embodies many classic Cancer traits. A crab has difficulty letting go of the past and can turn aggressive and reactionary if his loved ones are threatened—like waging war on someone who tried to kill his father, for example. They’re very family-oriented and prefer the comfort of home above all else, which may explain Bush’s frequent trips to his ranch in Texas. Cancers are notoriously moody, and though Bush displayed an optimism that bordered on delusional most of the time, the tide changed quickly if reporters hit a nerve at press conferences. However, Cancers are also supposed to be cautious with money and mostly ruled by common sense, two characteristics few would associate with Bush the Second.
Richard Nixon: Capricorn
Astrological goats are driven and will work tirelessly to achieve their goals. Capricorns attempting to gain power can be calculating and methodical and sometimes have difficulty appreciating what they’ve already accomplished, instead focusing on what comes next. Their determination makes success seem inevitable, but insecurity can also plague their inner thoughts and end up destroying their dreams. Nixon is a great example of this: he rose swiftly and effortlessly up the political ladder at a young age (he became Eisenhower’s VP at thirty-nine), but his paranoia and self-doubt led him to commit foolish and unnecessary acts that prompted his demise. Capricorns are also mindful of their status and reputation among their peers—possibly why Nixon was so concerned with how the press portrayed him.
John F. Kennedy: Gemini
No shocker here—one of the most charismatic presidents was born under one of the most charming signs in the zodiac. [The author is a Gemini—and quite charming. Ed.] Even after the Bay of Pigs mishap, Kennedy’s public approval rating was at 78 percent. One wonders if other presidents would’ve fared so well; Nixon reportedly said that he would’ve been impeached had he made the same mistake. Kennedy was known for his great sense of humor and inquisitiveness, two qualities usually attributed to Geminis. The adaptability of the Gemini personality also helped him make a variety of friends in different social circles and distinguish himself as a hard worker both in the Oval Office and on the football field. As Time magazine puts it in their 1961 Man of the Year article, “Kennedy has always had a way with the people—a presence that fits many moods.” He remains one of the most popular presidents to date.
