Elite vs Elitism

For years now, the Republicans have tried to peg many Democrats as "elitist" and "latte-drinking liberals". Never mind that Karl Rove and the DC Republican types are addicted to Starbuck's. It's been an effective branding campaign and the end result has been for many hard-working people to turn away from the very party working for their best interests. Thomas Frank famously wrote about the success of this movement in his book, What's the Matter with Kansas?

Today, as Hillary courts working class voters in Indianapolis, she returns to the Republican theme of painting a Democratic opponent as an "elitist" and "out of touch."  She harkens back to bring us tales of her grandfather working in a factory and how she lived amongst the people in Arkansas.  Never mind that it has been nearly 20 years since she lived without a full security detail, let alone anywhere near "the people" or Arkansas.  You can see her full comments here:

Not to be outdone, Barack Obama addresses the controversy head on while speaking to a crowd in Muncie, IN:

Amazingly, Barack Obama doesn't seem to be out of touch at all. In fact, it is probably Hillary Clinton and John McCain's worst nightmare that Barack Obama seems to be exactly in touch with the voters and their readiness for change.  

Barack Obama is an elite candidate, not an elitist candidate. Big difference. And why wouldn't Americans want the best?