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The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims spread through social media—among them the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Personal Routine

She stated that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that any image could be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she constantly needs to be careful to her outfits, her posture, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," she testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

The defendants, in that age range, are on trial for online harassment. A few had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent.

Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about the first lady's identity. Among them, this involved comparing her age difference with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they face as much as 24 months in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day passes when someone does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on loved ones, including the kids learning about false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."

Legal Battle Context

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight targeting the false claim that she is a man.

The Macrons have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements targeting a political commentator who promoted the allegation.

The case asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is in fact her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants denied the allegations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his posts as humorous.
• A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could undermine "the right to speak freely".
• Another individual testified he posted content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The false theory concerning the first lady's sex gained traction partly because their union has long been a point of interest in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than the president, originally knew him when working as a instructor at his secondary school.

Their relationship developed through drama activities, and they wed in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her account by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.