Reid: China's Hu a 'Dictator'

WASHINGTON — Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has labeled Chinese President Hu Jintao (hoo jihn-tow) a "dictator." But the Nevada Democrat, known for his gaffes, quickly acknowledged he perhaps shouldn't have used the word.

Reid made his comments on a Nevada television program, "Face to Face with Jon Ralston," the day of Hu's arrival in Washington for a state visit.

Reid was asked about political compromises Tuesday and said he would be meeting with the Chinese president. Said Reid: "He is a dictator" and can do things U.S. politicians can't. Reid then said he maybe shouldn't have used the word.

Reid declined an invitation to Wednesday's state dinner for Hu. But House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi will attend, her office said, despite her history of criticizing China on human rights.