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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—among them the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to her posture, because of the concern that any image might be misused to support negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she always needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were more visible.

Every defendant is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included comparing her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "decline of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on her relatives, such as her grandchildren hearing malicious statements like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she stated. "She's not elected, she never asked for any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Legal Battle Context

This case is the latest phase in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that the first lady was transgender.

The Macrons have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

In court, a few individuals rejected the charges.

• One defendant, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his online statements as ironic.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were meant to be "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual testified he shared information as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because their union has often been a topic of comment on the internet.

She, being two decades older than the president, first met the future president when serving as a educator at his secondary school.

The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they wed in that year, subsequent to her separation.

Auzière wrapped up her account by saying that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.