False Claims on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Testifies to the Tribunal

The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment directed at the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to how she stands, due to the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The result is that she always has to pay attention to her outfits, her body language, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included comparing her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they could receive up to two years in jail.

Family Impact

She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, stated how the false claims have led to a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual fails to mention this to her."

Auzière emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, for example the younger generation hearing false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She has no idea how to end it," she testified. "She's not elected, she has not sought any of this, and she is continually subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Context

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that the first lady is supposedly transgender.

The Macrons have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.

The legal filing asserts that the accusation is completely false and identifies that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his social media content as satirical.
• A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• Another individual testified he posted posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction partly because the Macrons' relationship has long been a point of interest in digital spaces.

The first lady, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when she was a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

She wrapped up her statement by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.