Misleading Allegations Online Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Testifies to the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.
She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in internet-based abuse against the first lady.
Effects on Personal Routine
She stated that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the fear that any image might be distorted to support hateful attacks.
"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what her actions in her daily life," Auzière told the court.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
The defendants, in that age range, are in court for online harassment. Some had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent.
All is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they face as much as 24 months in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".
She said, "Not a day passes when a person fails to mention this to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, including her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is your grandfather".
"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière testified. "She holds no office, she has not sought anything, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."
Court Case Background
This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly male.
The Macrons have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.
The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused disputed the charges.
- An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
- A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the legal action could undermine "free speech".
- Another individual said he posted information because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's sex gained traction to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment in digital spaces.
Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when working as a instructor at his school.
The connection between them grew through drama activities, and they married in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.
Auzière concluded her account by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.