Misleading Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Tells Court
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Personal Routine
Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that each snapshot may be misused to advance negative campaigns.
"The outcome is that she constantly needs to be careful to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," she testified.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while others were more visible.
Each one is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this extended to equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, described how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, including the kids being exposed to malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."
Judicial Proceedings Background
The Paris trial is the latest phase in a broader legal battle addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is a man.
The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements against a political commentator who spread the allegation.
The case asserts that the allegation is completely false and points out that the person cited is really her brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
Throughout the proceedings, several defendants rejected the accusations.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
- Another defendant stated that his posts were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the case could endanger "free speech".
- An art gallery owner said he shared content because he felt it was a global issue with "consequences for France".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's gender circulated partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
The first lady, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at the institution he attended.
Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they married in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.
She finished her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.