Controversial right-wing commentator Candace Owens has ignited a firestorm of criticism after devoting a segment of her show to a baseless and widely debunked conspiracy theory about France's First Lady, Brigitte Macron.
The theory, known online as 'transvestigation', absurdly claims that Brigitte Macron was born male and is secretly a transgender woman. Owens's decision to platform this dangerous nonsense has been met with fury and dismay from political commentators, LGBTQ+ advocates, and the public alike.
The Dangerous Game of 'Transvestigation'
So-called 'transvestigation' is a fringe internet conspiracy that employs distorted analysis of old photographs and speculative commentary to falsely claim that various public figures are transgender. It is widely recognised as a transphobic harassment campaign with no basis in fact.
By giving this theory a platform on her show, Owens has been accused of knowingly amplifying hateful content that directly endangers the transgender community. Critics argue this type of rhetoric fuels discrimination and real-world violence.
A Wave of Condemnation and Fact-Checking
The backlash was swift and severe. Social media users and journalists quickly fact-checked and condemned the segment. French journalist Natacha Rey was among those leading the charge, stating that promoting such a theory was not only factually wrong but also a clear act of transphobia.
Many highlighted the sheer absurdity of the claims, pointing to Brigitte Macron's well-documented life and history long before she met her husband, President Emmanuel Macron.
Why This Matters Beyond the Headlines
This incident is more than just a bizarre news story; it highlights a disturbing trend in modern media. The monetisation and mainstreaming of dangerous conspiracy theories for political gain and clicks have tangible consequences.
Platforming such content:
- Legitimises hate speech: It moves toxic ideas from the darkest corners of the internet into more public view.
- Endangers lives: It directly contributes to a hostile environment for transgender people.
- Erodes trust: It undermines public discourse and trust in factual information.
The response to Owens's segment serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of media responsibility and the need to vigorously challenge harmful misinformation wherever it appears.
