Macron Addresses Candace Owens’ Claims
French President Emmanuel Macron has labeled Candace Owens, known for her provocative online presence, a liar, asserting that she is knowingly spreading falsehoods about his wife, Brigitte, suggesting she was born as a man.
This criticism marks Macron’s first public response following a defamation lawsuit he filed in Delaware last month. In a statement to Paris Match Magazine, he condemned the conspiracy theories, saying they aim only to inflict harm under the guise of ideology.
Macron explained that he rejected advice from his aides to withdraw the lawsuit, stating it was essential for him to protect his honor.
“They are discussing the identities of their first lady, mother, and grandmother in France. This matters to me,” Macron emphasized.
He mentioned that Owens felt compelled to resort to legal measures to further her comments in the United States.
In response, Owens returned to her podcast, mocking Macron for not using her name during an interview, calling him “such a little punk” and “big weeney.”
Angrily, she proclaimed, “He won’t say my name! It feels like I’m in a kids’ show! Macron, I challenge you to say my name!” as she criticized his behavior.
The conflict intensified after Owens created an eight-part podcast series titled “Become Bridget,” promoting various conspiracy theories regarding the French couple and their relationship.
Macron’s lawsuit alleges that Owens is spreading damaging rumors surrounding gender identity for the sake of personal gain and notoriety.
Initially, the couple was hesitant to pursue legal action when these claims emerged in France, worrying it would further amplify the misinformation. However, as the narratives gained traction in the U.S., Macron felt silence was no longer an option.
He insisted that Owens has established connections with extreme right-wing figures in her advocacy.
In response to the lawsuit, some have accused Macron of trying to limit the rights of American journalists. Yet, he dismissed these claims, highlighting that freedom of speech should not shield anyone from the consequences of spreading harmful lies about his wife.
Macron then took a jab at the MAGA movement, suggesting that those who tout free speech can also misuse it.
“Talking about free speech while restricting journalists in the Oval Office is hypocritical,” he argued, referencing recent actions taken against Associated Press journalists.
Owens interpreted Macron’s remarks as an indirect critique of Trump, saying, “[Macron’s comments about the White House excluding reporters] sound like a dig at Trump,” as she expressed her views on her podcast.
Throughout this ordeal, Macron has firmly denied all allegations raised by Owens regarding Brigitte’s background and their marriage.
Advisors had cautioned against addressing the rumors, fearing it would only draw more attention. However, Macron contended that the proliferation of conspiracy theories in America left him with no choice but to act.
This lawsuit stands as a rare instance of a foreign leader pursuing defamation against an American media figure.
