False Assertions on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Tells Court

Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, including her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that any image might be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to what she wears, how she holds herself, irrespective of her activities in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Accused Individuals and Charges

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had a small social media following, while others were better known.

All is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this extended to comparing her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the false claims have caused a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when someone fails to mention these claims to her."

She pointed out the repercussions on the family, including the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She does not know how to end it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought anything, and she is continually facing this abuse."

Legal Battle Context

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight targeting the baseless theory that the first lady was transgender.

The couple have initiated a legal action in the United States for defamation targeting a political commentator who promoted the theory.

The lawsuit states that the claim is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is really her older brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, some of the accused disputed the accusations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• A fiction writer stated that his online activity were presented as "humor" and expressed concern that the case could threaten "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner said he shared content because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction to some extent because their union has often been a topic of comment on the internet.

She, who is 24 years older than the president, first met him when she was a instructor at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to her divorce.

She finished her account by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "chaos that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.