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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, from her fashion choices to her posture, because of the apprehension that any image may be manipulated to fuel malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of her activities in her daily life," she told the court.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while others were better known.

All is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved linking the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

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

She pointed out the impact on the family, including her grandchildren being exposed to malicious statements like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She does not know what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually subjected to these attacks."

Court Case Background

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a broader legal battle against the false claim that the first lady is male.

The Macrons have initiated a case in America for defamation against a conservative podcaster who amplified the claim.

The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is completely false and points out that the name mentioned is really her sibling.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, some of the accused rejected the charges.

• An individual, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
• A well-known publicist argued that his posts were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the trial could undermine "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant said he disseminated information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor regarding the first lady's sex spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a subject of discussion on the internet.

She, being two decades older than the president, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his secondary school.

Their relationship developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.