False Claims Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions online—such as the baseless theory that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.
She, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse against her mother.
Impact on Personal Routine
She explained that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to fuel malicious comments.
"The result is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are in court for online harassment. A few had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.
All is accused of posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this included linking the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She testified, "Not a day goes by when someone fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, such as the younger generation learning about malicious statements like "She is lying" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure what to do about it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought anything, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."
Legal Battle Context
This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that the first lady is male.
They have initiated a legal action in the United States over false statements against a conservative podcaster who spread the theory.
The legal filing asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the person cited is in fact her older brother.
Defendants' Responses
During the trial, a few individuals disputed the charges.
- An individual, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his social media content as ironic.
- Another defendant argued that his posts were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
- A third defendant explained he disseminated posts because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The baseless rumor regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a point of interest in digital spaces.
Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when serving as a educator at his secondary school.
Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to her divorce.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.