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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people facing charges for digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Impact on Everyday Activities

She testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, including her fashion choices to her posture, because of the concern that every photograph may be distorted to support malicious comments.

"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," she informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Charges

Eight men and two women, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had a small social media following, while several more were better known.

All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this involved comparing her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, a daughter from her mother's previous marriage, described how the false claims have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when a person avoids discussing these claims to her."

She highlighted the effects on her relatives, including the kids learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she never asked for anything, and she is continually facing these assaults."

Legal Battle Background

The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight targeting the false claim that she was transgender.

The couple have also filed a case in America for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who spread the claim.

The case states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused disputed the charges.

• An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
• A well-known publicist argued that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner testified he shared information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory concerning the first lady's sex gained traction in part because their marriage has often been a point of interest online.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.