President Macron Denounces Baseless Rumors Surrounding First Lady's Identity

Saturday 09 March 2024 - 09:46

French President Emmanuel Macron recently addressed and vehemently refuted unfounded conspiracy theories circulating online regarding his wife, Brigitte Macron, being transgender. In a candid interview, Macron expressed frustration with these fabricated scenarios, labeling them as "false information" that intrude upon personal life and privacy.

Since taking office in 2017, social media has been inundated with baseless rumors suggesting that the First Lady, formerly Brigitte Trogneux, was assigned male at birth with the name Jean-Michel. Macron asserted his intention to pursue legal action against such claims, emphasizing the necessity of utilizing the law and justice system to address misinformation.

Reports from various French media outlets trace the origins of these rumors to an article published in a far-right journal by Natacha Rey. The allegations gained momentum after being featured in a viral YouTube broadcast, as reported by the newspaper Libération.

Macron dismissed the credibility of these claims by pointing out that Brigitte Macron is the biological mother of three children from her previous marriage, highlighting the absurdity of the transgender allegations.

In a broader context, Macron underscored the importance of establishing a "digital public order" on social networks. He acknowledged the internet as a platform for diverse expression but emphasized the necessity of imposing rules to prevent it from becoming a lawless environment.

Macron reiterated his commitment to upholding truth and combating the dissemination of disinformation that can significantly impact personal lives, stating, "We must use the law, justice."