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The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse targeting her mother.

Consequences on Daily Life

She stated that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that every photograph may be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, no matter what her activities in her daily life," she testified.

Accused Individuals and Charges

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

All is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this included comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when someone does not talk this to her."

She highlighted the repercussions on her relatives, such as the kids hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Legal Battle Context

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight against the false claim that Brigitte Macron was a man.

The couple have initiated a case in America over false statements targeting a political commentator who amplified the claim.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, a few individuals rejected the allegations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his posts as satirical.
• Another defendant argued that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "free speech".
• An art gallery owner testified he disseminated posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor about the first lady's identity spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment on the internet.

She, being significantly older than the president, first met the future president when working as a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

She wrapped up her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.