Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Table of Contents
French President Takes Legal Action Against Right-Wing Commentator for Defamation
French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron have filed a defamation lawsuit in the U.S. against conservative commentator Candace Owens, following her repeated claims that France’s first lady was born male. The lawsuit, filed in Delaware Superior Court, accuses Owens of spreading false and malicious lies to boost her podcast and grow her fan base.
Key Allegations in the Macron vs. Owens Lawsuit
The 22-count complaint alleges that Owens engaged in a “campaign of global humiliation” against Brigitte Macron by falsely claiming she was born under the name Jean-Michel Trogneux—the actual name of her older brother. The Macrons argue that Owens’ statements have subjected them to relentless bullying and public ridicule.
The lawsuit states:
“Every time the Macrons leave their home, they do so knowing that countless people have heard, and many believe, these vile fabrications. It is invasive, dehumanizing, and deeply unjust.”
The legal action seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, though the exact amount has not been disclosed.
candace owens
Candace Owens’ Controversial Claims
Owens, a right-wing media personality, has repeatedly pushed the false narrative that Brigitte Macron is transgender. These claims have circulated in conspiracy theory circles for years, but Owens amplified them on her podcast and social media platforms.
The Macrons argue that Owens knowingly spread false information to increase engagement and expand her audience. Under U.S. defamation law, public figures like the Macrons must prove “actual malice”—meaning Owens either knew her statements were false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth.
Why This Lawsuit Is Significant
This case is rare because it involves a sitting world leader suing for defamation in the U.S. legal system. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has also filed multiple defamation lawsuits, including one last week against The Wall Street Journal’s publisher.
Legal experts suggest that Macron’s case could set a precedent for how foreign leaders pursue defamation claims in American courts. If successful, it could discourage other commentators from spreading unverified claims about public figures.
Public and Legal Reactions
As of now, Candace Owens has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. Macron’s office has also declined further comment, leaving the legal filing to speak for itself.
Social media reactions have been divided:
Supporters of Owens argue that the lawsuit is an attack on free speech.
Critics say the case highlights the dangers of spreading misinformation about public figures.
What’s Next in the Legal Battle?
The case will proceed in Delaware Superior Court, where the Macrons’ legal team must prove:
Owens’ statements were false and defamatory.
She acted with actual malice.
If the court rules in the Macrons’ favor, Owens could face significant financial penalties. However, defamation cases are notoriously difficult to win in the U.S., especially when the plaintiff is a public figure.
This lawsuit underscores the growing tension between free speech and defamation in the digital age. As influencers like Candace Owens continue to push controversial narratives, legal battles like this one could become more common.
For now, the world watches as a French president takes on an American commentator in a high-stakes legal showdown.