"It's not surprising, then, they get bitter, 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"

This quote by Barack Obama is referring to people who are struggling economically and seem like they have actually been left behind. He is stating that it is not unexpected that these people end up being bitter and rely on guns, religion, or negative sensations towards individuals who are various from them, immigrants, or trade as a method to describe their aggravations. He is suggesting that these individuals are utilizing these things as a method to cope with their difficult situation. He is likewise implying that these people need to be comprehended and helped, rather than evaluated or disregarded. This quote is a pointer that people who are having a hard time need to be provided the support they require, instead of being dismissed or judged.