I hardly think that using the archaic but non-pejorative term "negro" on a single occasion is sufficient to identify Reid as a racist. Moreover, Reid's comments were accurate as to political reality - he was describing a stereotype adhered to by the electorate without endorsing it. It isn't the same thing as identifying with on old, hard line anti-civil rights, pro-segretationist stance as Trent Lott did. Moreover, if there is some ambiguity as to whether he really meant "negro" in the pejorative sense, Reid's actual voting record on civil rights pretty much clears that up:
http://www.ontheissues.org/Senate/Harry_Reid.htm
Voted YES on setting aside 10% of highway funds for minorities & women. (Mar 1998)
Voted NO on ending special funding for minority & women-owned business. (Oct 1997)
Voted NO on banning affirmative action hiring with federal funds. (Jul 1995)
Issue a commemorative postage stamp of Rosa Parks. (Dec 2005)
Rated 96% by the NAACP, indicating a pro-affirmative-action stance. (Dec 2006)
Recognize Juneteenth as historical end of slavery. (Jun 2008)
Honor the 100th anniversary of the NAACP. (Jan 2009)
Trent Lott:
http://www.ontheissues.org/Senate/Trent_Lott.htm
- wolf