🔗 Share this article Misleading Claims Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Testifies to Court The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims online—among them the groundless claim that the French first lady is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life. She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants accused of digital bullying directed at her mother. Effects on Daily Life Auzière stated that the first lady now worries constantly about how she looks, such as her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, because of the fear that each snapshot may be misused to fuel negative campaigns. "The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she testified. Those on Trial and Charges Ten individuals, in that age range, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had limited online influence, while several more were more visible. Every defendant is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this included equating the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms. If found responsible, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in incarceration. Consequences for Loved Ones She, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the false claims have caused a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her overall existence". She said, "Hardly a day passes when someone fails to mention these claims to her." Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, including the younger generation learning about malicious statements like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man". "She has no idea how to stop it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue 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 she was transgender. They have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements against a media personality who amplified the claim. The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and notes that the person cited is in fact her brother. Defendants' Responses In court, a few individuals rejected the charges. One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as satirical. A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could threaten "free speech". A third defendant said he shared content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation". Personal History The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's identity circulated partly because their marriage has often been a topic of comment online. The first lady, aged 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when working as a instructor at his secondary school. The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they wed in that year, after her separation. Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the false claims have produced a "storm that never stops" for her mother.