Deconstruction aside for a moment, I think part of what's going on here are the individual interpretations of the term "hidden agenda." I've always construed it as a negative thing (misrepresenting oneself) but not all do, apparently.

So I LedIU, and here's what AHD says:


hidden agenda

An undisclosed plan, especially one with an ulterior motive.

ulterior

1. Lying beyond what is evident, revealed, or avowed, especially being concealed intentionally so as to deceive:* an ulterior motive.

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*E.A.