Conservative commentator Candace Owens has endorsed discredited conspiracy theories about French President Emmanuel Macron’s wife Brigitte Macron, inviting widespread criticism and scrutiny of her rhetoric. Mr Owens, a prominent figure in conservative circles, claimed Brigitte Macron was born male and had a sex change to female, an unsubstantiated claim that has been widely denied.
This conspiracy theory originates from a French publication. Current status and documentsfalsely claiming that Brigitte Macron was born Jean-Michel Trogneux, her brother’s name. This claim, completely unsupported by any reliable evidence and spread in fringe online spaces, gained attention after Owens’ public endorsement. On the podcast, Owens said: “I would stake my entire professional reputation on the fact that Brigitte Macron is actually a man.” The declaration sparked outrage, with many accusing Owens of spreading harmful and transphobic rhetoric.
Origin and spread of theory
The theory has its origins in a 2021 article published by Faits et Document, a magazine known for promoting conspiracy theories and sensationalist articles. The article claimed that Brigitte Macron assumed a false identity after the transition and used carefully selected photos and unverifiable anecdotes to support her claims. French authorities and legal experts have dismissed the claims as defamatory and false, and Brigitte Macron herself has taken legal action against the individuals who spread the rumors.
Despite the lack of reliable evidence, the conspiracy gained traction on social media, particularly in far-right and conspiracy theory circles. Owens’ endorsement added fuel to the fire, increasing the spread of the theory to her millions of followers and sparking heated debate online.
widespread condemnation
Critics across the political spectrum accused Owens of promoting this theory. Advocacy groups labeled her comments irresponsible and transphobic, warning that such rhetoric contributes to anti-trans prejudice and the spread of harmful misinformation.
President Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron have both publicly addressed the rumors. President Macron spoke of the dangers of misinformation, saying: “The worst thing is misinformation and fabricated scenarios that undermine trust and spread hatred.” Brigitte Macron also condemned the theory, saying it was a violation of her dignity and reflected the dark side of social media.
Owens’ history of misinformation
This is not the first time Owens has been criticized for spreading falsehoods. Over the years, she has built a reputation for making controversial and unsubstantiated claims. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Owens has repeatedly downplayed the severity of the virus, promoted unproven treatments and undermined the effectiveness of vaccines, despite overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary. questioned. Her comments contributed to misinformation about the pandemic, which public health experts said undermined efforts to fight the virus.
Owens also promoted conspiracy theories about the 2020 U.S. presidential election, alleging widespread voter fraud despite a lack of evidence and multiple court rulings affirming the integrity of the election. There is. These claims are connected to rising political polarization and the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, which Owens has downplayed.
In 2022, Owens faced backlash for comments about the Uvalde school shooting that suggested the tragedy was being used to advance a political agenda. Critics accused her of being insensitive and exploiting a national tragedy for partisan ends.
Widespread impact of misinformation
The controversy surrounding Owens’ comments highlights a broader problem of misinformation in the digital age. With social media platforms acting as echo chambers, unsubstantiated claims can quickly gain traction, often with potentially harmful consequences. Experts warn that such misinformation not only targets individuals, but also undermines public trust in institutions and exacerbates social divisions.
For example, the theory about Brigitte Macron is emblematic of how unsubstantiated rumors can escalate into international controversy, fueled by prominent figures like Owens who provide legitimacy. The resulting harm extends beyond the immediate target and into broader public discourse, perpetuating stereotypes and fostering division.
demand accountability
Advocacy groups and media watchdog groups are calling for greater accountability for celebrities who spread misinformation. Groups like the Anti-Defamation League and GLAAD are calling on social media platforms to take stronger action against users who incite falsehoods, especially hatred and discrimination.
In France, legal action remains an important tool for combating defamation claims. Brigitte Macron’s legal team is pursuing legal action against those who spread the conspiracy, a move seen as a broader effort to hold individuals accountable for perpetuating falsehoods.
