French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, are taking legal action against right-wing American commentator Candace Owens, filing a defamation lawsuit in the United States. The lawsuit, lodged in Delaware, accuses Owens of engaging in a sustained campaign of defamatory attacks aimed at boosting her media profile and generating revenue.
The core of the dispute lies in Owens's unsubstantiated claims that Brigitte Macron is a man. These claims, initially made in early 2024, were amplified in an eight-part podcast series titled 'Becoming Brigitte,' according to the lawsuit. The Macrons allege that Owens not only refused to retract her statements despite repeated requests but also used the controversy to further engage her audience.
According to the legal documents, Owens's claims extended beyond the initial assertion, including allegations that Brigitte Macron stole another person's identity and transitioned, that the Macrons are blood relatives involved in incest, and that President Macron was selected as President of France through a CIA mind-control program. The lawsuit lists 22 counts of defamation.
Tom Clare, an attorney representing the Macrons, spoke with CNN's Jake Tapper, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations and the Macrons' decision to pursue legal recourse. The lawsuit seeks damages and a retraction of the defamatory statements.
This case highlights the potential legal consequences of spreading misinformation and the willingness of public figures to defend their reputations against unfounded attacks. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the boundaries of free speech and the responsibilities of commentators in the digital age.
Key Allegations Against Candace Owens
- Claiming Brigitte Macron was born a man.
- Alleging identity theft and transition.
- Accusing the Macrons of incest.
- Suggesting President Macron was part of a CIA mind-control program.
The Macrons' Response
The Macrons sought retractions but were allegedly met with mockery, prompting the defamation lawsuit.