Fact check: What are the sources of the rumors about Brigitte Macron's birth gender?

1. Summary of the results

The rumors about Brigitte Macron's birth gender have two primary sources based on the available analyses:

Primary Source - Candace Owens: Conservative influencer Candace Owens is identified as the key figure who revived and amplified these conspiracy theories ^{[1] [2] [3]}. Owens created a YouTube video titled "Is France's First Lady a Man?" and has since produced numerous videos promoting this false claim ^[2]. She has also sold merchandise based on these conspiracy theories ^[2]. Owens specifically claimed that Brigitte is "a very goofy man" ^[1].

Secondary Source - Far-Right Websites and QAnon: The rumors originally emerged from far-right websites and were circulated by conspiracy theorists, including those from the QAnon movement ^[4]. These sources preceded Owens' involvement but gained significantly more traction through her platform.

Specific False Claims: The rumors falsely claim that Brigitte Macron was born male under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, which is actually the name of Brigitte's brother ^{[1] [4]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Legal Consequences: The analyses reveal that these rumors have resulted in multiple defamation lawsuits. The Macrons have sued Candace Owens in a Delaware court, with their lawyer seeking "substantial" damages ^[1]. Additionally, two women are on trial in France for defamation over similar false claims ^[5].

Pattern of Targeting Powerful Women: The conspiracy theories about Brigitte Macron are part of a broader pattern of similar false claims targeting prominent women, including Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris ^[3]. This suggests a systematic approach to undermining powerful women through gender-based conspiracy theories.

Escalation of Harm: The false gender claims have led to more serious accusations of child abuse against Brigitte Macron ^[5], demonstrating how conspiracy theories can escalate and cause additional harm.

Financial Motivation: Candace Owens has monetized these false claims by selling merchandise related to the conspiracy theory ^[2], indicating a financial incentive to continue spreading misinformation.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question appears neutral and factual in seeking information about the sources of these rumors. However, there are some considerations:

Framing as "Rumors": While the question appropriately frames these as "rumors," it's important to note that these are demonstrably false claims that have resulted in legal action for defamation ^{[1] [5]}.

Lack of Context About Harm: The question doesn't acknowledge that these rumors have caused "tremendous damage" to the Macrons ^[2] and have escalated beyond simple gender speculation to more serious false accusations ^[5].

Missing Broader Pattern: The question focuses specifically on Brigitte Macron without acknowledging that this is part of a systematic pattern of targeting powerful women with similar conspiracy theories ^[3].