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The French first lady's child, her daughter, has told a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

She, a attorney, served as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She testified that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to her posture, because of the concern that every photograph might be distorted to fuel hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her clothing, her posture, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while others were better known.

Each one is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved linking her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they face up to two years in prison.

Family Impact

She, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on the family, such as the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she never asked for public attention, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."

Court Case Background

The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that she is supposedly transgender.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who spread the theory.

The case asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is in fact her brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
• A well-known publicist stated that his posts were presented as "irony" and voiced worry that the case could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual explained he posted information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity spread in part because their marriage has often been a topic of comment online.

The first lady, aged 24 years older than her husband, originally knew the future president when she was a educator at his school.

The connection between them developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

She concluded her statement by stating that the false claims have produced a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.