I mean I get why people say it. But we have to also be honest with ourselves. If it is something (strongly) pushed by societies that we utterly despise (be the Nazis, the dystopian writing of Sinclair (origin), or Voldemort's puppet state), it probably doesn't align with the beliefs of a free society.
The phrase is too frequently used by societies that we consider to not be free, being pervasive enough that a single use in literature would tell you that the characters live in an oppressive regime. Yet somehow we can make that connection but don't make it when actual politicians and citizens repeat it.
Personally I feel sickened that the phrase is so pervasive in our society (goes beyond the US). Just as I'd be if people were constantly saying "Work will set you free."