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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims online—such as the baseless theory that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants facing charges for online harassment directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, including her attire to her posture, due to the fear that every photograph could be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, regardless of her activities in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Defendants and Allegations

The defendants, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. Some had limited online influence, while others were more visible.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved equating the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they face as much as 24 months in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

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

Auzière pointed out the impact on loved ones, for example her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She does not know how to stop it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for public attention, and she is permanently facing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case is the latest phase in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that she was transgender.

They have pursued a case in America for defamation against a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The case asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, some of the accused denied the accusations.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
• A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were presented as "satire" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
• Another individual testified he shared information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The baseless rumor regarding Brigitte Macron's sex circulated partly because their union has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly 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 Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her account by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "chaos that never stops" for her mother.