Is Election Essential to the Gospel?

Many people believe that election is not an essential doctrine and that the gospel can be preached without it. However, according to Rom. 11:5-6, the doctrine of grace is rooted in election. I fear that many people who say election is not essential are either trying too hard to be ecumenical so that Arminians won't be offended, or they are simply concealing their own dislike for the doctrine. Who are we to say that any doctrine in Scripture is not essential? If it isn't essential, why did God author it?

(I apologize for the irritated and sarcastic tone in this message. I found myself preaching against certain unmentioned people and it comes across in my tone. I find it hard to listen to myself preach this way and it has happened far too often. I leave the sermon up because I believe the content is true and accurate and that hopefully people can benefit if the tone doesn't drive them away.)