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The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Personal Routine

She stated that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, including her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that every photograph may be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she systematically must be cautious to what she wears, her posture, regardless of she's doing in her daily life," she testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had limited online influence, while the rest were better known.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this included comparing her age difference with her husband to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

She, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "decline of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when a person avoids discussing the issue to her."

She highlighted the effects on the family, for example her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She does not know how to end it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually subjected to this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

This case represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight against the false claim that she was transgender.

The Macrons have initiated a US lawsuit over false statements targeting a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.

The legal filing states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his social media content as humorous.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were meant to be "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "free speech".
• An art gallery owner explained he posted information because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's sex spread partly because their union has long been a point of interest on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when serving as a instructor at his school.

The connection between them evolved through theatrical projects, and they married in that year, following Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She wrapped up her testimony by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.