Misleading Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells Court
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.
She, a attorney, served as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants accused of online harassment against her mother.
Consequences on Everyday Activities
She stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, from her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, as a result of the apprehension that every photograph could be misused to support malicious comments.
"The outcome is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Charges
The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while others were better known.
Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this included linking her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.
Family Impact
Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "decline of her quality of life".
She said, "Not a day goes by when someone does not talk this to her."
She highlighted the impact on loved ones, including her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is your grandfather".
"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."
Legal Battle Background
This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the false claim that she is male.
They have initiated a US lawsuit alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.
The legal filing asserts that the accusation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is really her older brother.
Defendants' Responses
In court, some of the accused denied the charges.
- One defendant, serving as a local official, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as humorous.
- A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could undermine "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner said he posted posts as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Past Context
The false theory concerning the first lady's sex gained traction partly because their union has frequently been a point of interest online.
She, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when working as a instructor at his school.
Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in 2007, following her divorce.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.