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The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Everyday Activities

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about how she looks, including her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that each snapshot may be distorted to support hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, her body language, regardless of her activities in her daily life," she testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

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

Each one is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. Among them, this involved equating the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.

Family Impact

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She said, "Hardly a day passes when a person does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on loved ones, for example her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is permanently experiencing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly male.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements against a conservative podcaster who promoted the theory.

The legal filing asserts that the claim is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is in fact her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, several defendants denied the charges.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and described his posts as humorous.
• A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could threaten "free speech".
• An art gallery owner explained he disseminated information as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Relationship Background

The false theory about the first lady's gender gained traction in part because their union has long been a point of interest online.

The first lady, who is 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when she was a instructor at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they wed in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

She wrapped up her testimony by saying that the false claims have caused a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.