"It's not our intention to use eminent domain"

Nowadays, the phrase "It's not our intention to use eminent domain" almost sounds defensive, doesn't it?

Of course, the full sentence changes the context: "It's not our intention to use eminent domain or any sort of condemnation of land unless there was no other choice." It is a little like the scene from Blazing Saddles where Bart takes himself hostage and threatens to shoot if any one comes closer. Don't make us use eminent domain!