You could be many things at the same time. We operate within a state framework and therefore, in that sense, we are agents of the state, but I recognize, Mr. MacGregor, that you are also a member of Parliament. I don't know your personal situation, but you are also a son. Perhaps you are a husband. Perhaps you are a father. You can be many things at once.
The phrase “agents of the state” is not pejorative in any sense.