Misleading Allegations on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Tells Court
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.
Consequences on Personal Routine
Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, from the clothes she wears to her posture, as a result of the fear that every photograph could be distorted to support malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, no matter what her actions in everyday routine," she told the court.
Accused Individuals and Charges
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are on trial for online harassment. A few had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.
Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this included comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
If convicted, they face up to two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
Auzière, one of three children from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".
She said, "Not a day goes by when someone does not talk these claims to her."
Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, including the younger generation learning about hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".
"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently subjected to these assaults."
Judicial Proceedings History
This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was transgender.
They have also filed a case in America over false statements involving a conservative podcaster who spread the claim.
The lawsuit asserts that the claim is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is actually Brigitte Macron's brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals rejected the allegations.
- A retired business owner, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
- Another defendant argued that his posts were intended as "irony" and expressed concern that the legal action could undermine "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant said he shared posts as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".
Personal History
The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's gender circulated in part because their marriage has frequently been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
The first lady, being two decades older than the president, originally knew him when serving as a educator at the institution he attended.
Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's separation.
She finished her account by expressing that the false claims have created a "storm that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.