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French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, have initiated a defamation lawsuit against right-wing podcaster and conspiracy theorist Candace Owens, alleging that she has engaged in a year-long campaign of slander against them. Filed in Delaware, the complaint accuses Owens of spreading outrageous conspiracy theories, including claims that Brigitte Macron is a man, that the couple is involved in incest, and that they are under CIA control.
Owens responded to the lawsuit on her Instagram by sharing a screenshot of the news story and mocking the Macrons, stating she would “come for this wig today.” Known for her history of promoting conspiracy theories and controversial remarks, Owens has faced previous suspensions from platforms like YouTube for her anti-LGBTQ comments.
Tom Clare, the attorney representing the Macrons, explained that pursuing legal action was a last resort after a year of attempting to engage with Owens and provide her with evidence to correct her statements. Despite multiple requests to retract her claims, Owens allegedly dismissed their efforts and even mocked them with merchandise promoting her defamation.
The complaint highlights that the hurtful assertions have taken a toll on the couple’s ability to lead a normal life without fear of being ridiculed or questioned about the lies propagated by Owens. Clare noted that while public figures often face commentary, the emotional impact of such defamatory statements is significant because they are real people with personal lives.
Owens has also made headlines for her Holocaust denial and anti-Semitic remarks. Following the lawsuit’s filing, she dismissed it as a “desperate public relations strategy.” Clare emphasized that Owens’ dismissive attitude could serve as evidence for punitive damages in court, as it suggests a lack of remorse for her actions.
The lawsuit alleges that Owens knowingly spread falsehoods, and while Clare acknowledged the complexities of determining her motivations, he underscored the importance of accountability in curbing disinformation. The complaint comprises 219 pages attempting to establish a foundation for proving that her claims are baseless and harmful.
When asked about potential damages, Clare indicated that the Macrons seek a substantial award reflecting the significant impact of Owens’s statements on their reputation, referencing previous high-profile defamation cases like that against Fox News. He mentioned that the consequences of disinformation are profound, as her assertions have been cited by various media outlets, further perpetuating the false narratives.
Clare maintained that taking legal action is a necessary step in addressing and combating disinformation, asserting that individuals have the right to protect their reputation in the public arena. As the case advances, the Macrons’ lawsuit could shed light on the responsibilities of public figures in disseminating accurate information and the potential consequences of spreading unfounded claims.
