"...they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

Many people blame others for socio-economic circumstances that they do not understand.

I don't understand why you think this is an elitist expression of the situation. Its an educated perspective. Elitism and education are not the same.

I suppose you prefer a president you could invite to a barbecue but who wouldn't be able to explain or wouldn't bother to give you a reason for anything. At least Obama attempts to understand the fear and frustration of others.

Why do you think people are anti-trade and anti-immigrant? Why do you think people cling to guns and religion?