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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in internet-based abuse against the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that any image may be misused to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," she testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are in court for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

All is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this included equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She said, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual fails to mention this to her."

Auzière highlighted the repercussions on her relatives, including the younger generation learning about hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."

Court Case History

This case represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly a man.

They have pursued a case in America over false statements involving a conservative podcaster who spread the theory.

The legal filing asserts that the allegation is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is in fact her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, several defendants rejected the accusations.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his social media content as humorous.
• Another defendant claimed that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner said he disseminated information as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's sex spread partly because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion online.

Brigitte Macron, aged significantly older than her husband, originally knew him when working as a teacher at his school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her testimony by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.