To the OP, I don't think I'm oversimplifying it too much in thinking that one of his goals in saying that is just to try to paint him as a bit of a sissy. No offense to our French friends, but that's the stereotype in the States, and I'm sure that comes as no surprise. Sometimes the basest implications can be the strongest. No one wants a sissy leading the country!
Also, I think "anti-intellectual" is the wrong term. Anti-European, sure. Anti-elitism, yes. There may be fine lines between these concepts (especially for our European members) but I think they're discernible lines nonetheless.
For example, one of the complaints lodged against Obama is that he at times seems more interested in how the rest of the world views us than many of us really care. Many Americans, including myself, don't see the European system as something to emulate. To many, Obama's seeming to be constantly seeking the rest of the world's approval doesn't jive well with our western, cowboyish, rugged-individualist foundation. He could certainly be playing to that sentiment.
Plus, likening your opponent to John Kerry in any manner is a pretty good tactic. :)