Conservative commentator Candace Owens has supported a rejected conspiracy theory about Brigitte Macron, the family of French President Emmanuel Macron, in a shift that has drawn widespread condemnation and increased scrutiny of her speech. Owens, a well-known find in conventional circles, made the absurd claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man and later a woman.
The crime concept originates from a French release, Faits et Documents, which erroneously alleged that Brigitte Macron was born as Jean-Michel Trogneux, her friend’s name. This state, entirely unsupported by reliable data, has circulated in border online spaces but gained momentum after Owens ‘ open endorsement. Owens stated on her podcast that she would” strike my entire professional reputation on the fact that Brigitte Macron is actually a gentleman.” Some people accuse Owens of spreading hateful and transphobic rhetoric in response to this charter.
Origins and Spread of the Theory
The hypotheses source lies in an essay published in 2021 by Faits et Documents, a newspaper known for promoting conspiracy theories and tendentious reports. The post claimed Brigitte Macron transitioned to a fake identity and used only limited photos and untestable anecdotes to support its claims. The accusations have been slanderous and misleading, and Brigitte Macron herself has filed legal action against those who spread the rumor.
Despite the lack of reliable data, the crime gained momentum on social media, especially in far-right and conspiracy-theory loops. Owens ‘ support gave the theory more life, boosting its appeal to her millions of followers and stoking contentious online conversations.
Broad Condemnation
Owens has received criticism from detractors from all political parties for promoting the concept. Her comments have been labelled as misogynistic and reckless by advocacy groups, warning that such rhetoric encourages the stigma of transgender people and the spread of dangerous misinformation.
Emmanuel Macron, the leader, and Brigitte Macron, the president, both made public statements about the stories. The worst thing is misleading information and fabricated cases, according to President Macron, who cited the risks of propaganda. Additionally, Brigitte Macron has criticized the concept, calling it a violation of her integrity and a representation of the lighter side of social media.
Owens ‘ Story of Propaganda
Owens has previously faced criticism for spreading lies. She has cultivated a reputation for making contradictory and unsupported states over the years. During the COVID-19 crisis, Owens repeatedly downplayed the seriousness of the disease, promoted unproven solutions, and questioned the effectiveness of vaccines, despite enormous scientific evidence to the contrary. Her remarks stoked public health authorities ‘ claims that her statements stifled efforts to combat the disease.
Owens has also spread conspiracies about the US presidential election’s 2020 campaign, claiming widespread voting fraud despite the election’s morality and numerous court rulings. These assertions have been linked to the Capitol protests on January 6 and heightened social polarization, which Owens has downplayed.
In her comments about the Uvalde class shooting, in which she claimed that the drama was being used to advance a political agenda, Owens faced backlash in 2022. She was accused of being insensitive and using a horror to serve political objectives by critics.
The Broader Impact of Misinformation
The controversy surrounding Owens ‘ comment highlights the larger problem of propaganda in the modern age. With social media platforms serving as sound chambers, baseless claims you gain traction immediately, often with detrimental consequences. According to experts, this misinformation not merely targets people, but it also undermines public trust in institutions and causes societal divisions to grow.
The concept about Brigitte Macron, for example, is indicative of how false rumors does escalate into global controversies, fueled by notable figures like Owens who lend them an air of legitimacy. The damage that results extends beyond the immediate goals to the general public discourse, perpetuating stereotypes and encouraging section.
Calling for Accountability
Advocates and internet auditors want more transparency for public figures who spread false information. Companies like the Anti-Defamation League and GLAAD have urged social media platforms to get stronger action against people who spread lies, especially those that foster anger or prejudice.
Legal action is still a crucial tool in France for battling disparaging claims. In a move seen as a broader effort to hold those responsible for spreading falsehoods, Brigitte Macron’s legitimate group has filed lawsuits against those who are responsible for perpetuating the crime.