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The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—such as the unfounded rumor that she is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, including her attire to how she stands, because of the apprehension that each snapshot might be distorted to fuel negative campaigns.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, her body language, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more prominent.

Every defendant is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to linking the disparity in years with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day passes when someone fails to mention the issue to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, such as her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

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

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was transgender.

The Macrons have initiated a case in America alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The case states that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the person cited is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, several defendants denied the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner said he posted information as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim about the first lady's identity circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a topic of comment online.

The first lady, being two decades older than her husband, first met him when serving as a instructor at his school.

The connection between them evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, after her divorce.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.