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The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She explained that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that any image might be distorted to advance negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. Several had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.

Every defendant is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to equating the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, a family member from her mother's first marriage, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when someone does not talk the issue to her."

She emphasized the impact on loved ones, including the kids learning about malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to end it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."

Court Case Context

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle addressing the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.

The Macrons have also filed a case in America for defamation targeting a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.

The case asserts that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his online statements as humorous.
• A fiction writer claimed that his social media shares were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he posted content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's sex spread to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when working as a teacher at his school.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, after her separation.

Auzière wrapped up her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.