Inaccurate Claims on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells Judges

Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—including the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in internet-based abuse against the first lady.

Effects on Daily Life

Auzière testified that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that each snapshot may be distorted to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she always needs to be careful to her outfits, her posture, no matter what she's doing in her daily life," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. A few had limited online influence, while others were more prominent.

Each one is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this involved linking her age difference with her husband to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive up to two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day goes by when an individual fails to mention these claims to her."

She pointed out the effects on loved ones, such as the kids hearing malicious statements like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to end it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the inaccurate allegation that she is transgender.

The Macrons have initiated a case in America alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.

The lawsuit asserts that the claim is totally unfounded and points out that the name mentioned is really her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• An individual, holding a public position, asserted he "never intended to cause harm" and described his social media content as humorous.
• A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the legal action could undermine "free speech".
• A third defendant explained he shared content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction to some extent because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, aged two decades older than the president, first met the future president when working as a teacher at his school.

Their relationship evolved through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

She concluded her account by stating that the false claims have produced a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.