🔗 Share this article False Claims Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Informs the Tribunal The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—including the groundless claim that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence. Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of digital bullying against Brigitte Macron. Consequences on Daily Life She explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the apprehension that any image might be misused to fuel hateful attacks. "The outcome is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière told the court. Accused Individuals and Charges Eight men and two women, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. Some had limited online influence, while others were better known. All is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. For some, this included linking the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels. Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in prison. Family Impact Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence". She testified, "Not a day passes when someone does not talk this to her." Auzière highlighted the effects on the family, including her grandchildren hearing malicious statements like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male". "She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she never asked for any of this, and she is continually subjected to these assaults." Judicial Proceedings History This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was a man. They have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements involving a media personality who promoted the claim. The case clarifies that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's sibling. Defendants' Responses During the trial, some of the accused disputed the allegations. One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as ironic. A well-known publicist stated that his posts were intended as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely". A third defendant said he shared content because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France". Past Context The baseless rumor about the first lady's gender gained traction to some extent because their union has often been a topic of comment on the internet. The first lady, being 24 years older than the president, first met the future president when she was a teacher at his school. Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, following her divorce. She concluded her account by stating that the false claims have produced a "chaos that never stops" for the first lady.