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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—such as the baseless theory that she was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

She, a attorney, served as a testifier in the trial of ten people facing charges for online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Personal Routine

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, from her attire to how she stands, due to the fear that every photograph could be distorted to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

All is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this involved linking the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the false claims have led to a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She testified, "Not a day passes when a person avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière emphasized the effects on the family, for example the kids learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for public attention, and she is continually facing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case against the false claim that Brigitte Macron was transgender.

The couple have pursued a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a political commentator who promoted the allegation.

The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is completely false and notes that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, some of the accused rejected the charges.

• One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to cause harm" and described his posts as ironic.
• A well-known publicist argued that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and expressed concern that the case could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner testified he shared posts because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The baseless rumor regarding Brigitte Macron's sex circulated to some extent because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met the future president when working as a instructor at his secondary school.

The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière concluded her account by stating that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.