KEVIN CORKE: The contrast was inescapable. On the one hand, you had the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau. Newly minted fresh face leader of America's famously nice northern neighbor. On the other, you had the politically weathered President Obama, forced at least momentarily to turn his attention away from the important bilateral relationship with America's principal trading partner to answer questions about his role in what many see as a coarsening of the political dialogue in the United States. 

[...]

To the seeming-bemusement of Prime Minister Trudeau, Mr. Obama acknowledged what many have suggested: that the growing rancor may have led to the rise of GOP front-runner Donald Trump. But he quickly pivoted,  instead urging Republicans to do some soul searching before blaming him for the country's increasingly intense political divide. 

[...]

But critics say it's the president's actions that have set the tone of frustration in the country. From executive actions on immigration and guns to intense battles with lawmakers on Obamacare and trade. Even the looming showdown over his next Supreme Court nominee. 

[...]

But considering Mr. Obama was catapulted to victory in his bid for the White House in part because of the country's political frustration, Donald Trump's rise may well be a harbinger of things to come. Boy the contrast could not be more stark. 

Previously: 

President Obama Calls Out Conservative Media For Helping Create “An Environment Where Somebody Like A Donald Trump Can Thrive”

Conservatives Blame Obama For Creating Trump With Partisanship, Despite Republican Vows Of Gridlock

Rush Limbaugh Blames Obama For The Rise Of Trump