He was wowed by Obama’s oratorical gifts and believed that the country was ready to embrace a black presidential candidate, especially one such as Obama — a “light-skinned” African American “with no Negro dialect, unless he wanted to have one,” as he said privately.

Reids is basically saying that Obama is amazing because “He speaks so well and doesn’t look that black.”

Reid has since apologized after the story gained the attention of the main stream media. “I regret using such a poor choice of words. I sincerely apologize for offending any and all Americans, especially African-Americans for my improper comments.”

The democrats have been quick to play down his remarks but for Reid, trailing in polls, this loss of credibility could not have come at a worse time. President Obama relies heavily on him to try to pass the massive health care overhaul bill.