Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, known to many simply as AOC, is one of the most recognizable and talked-about figures in American politics today. From her rapid rise to Congress at the age of 29 to her vocal advocacy for progressive policies, she’s remained firmly in the public spotlight. But behind the scenes, one man has quietly been at her side for years—Riley Roberts, her long-time partner and now fiancé.
While AOC’s political journey has played out under intense public scrutiny, her relationship has remained largely out of the spotlight. That changed in recent years, especially after the couple attended the 2021 Met Gala together and later confirmed their engagement in 2022.
So who exactly is Riley Roberts? Here’s everything we know about the man who’s been by AOC’s side through it all—from college to Capitol Hill.
From College Sweethearts to Political Power Couple
Riley Roberts and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez first met as students at Boston University when they were both 19. Their early relationship began in the familiar surroundings of campus life, where the two bonded over shared interests and deep conversations at events like Coffee and Conversations, a regular Friday discussion group for politically engaged students.
According to Business Insider, the forum allowed Roberts—known for his sharp intellect and love for challenging debates—to make an impression on peers, including AOC. Friends recall that Roberts often “stirred the pot,” encouraging lively discourse and matching AOC’s passion for ideas and advocacy.
Their relationship blossomed during college, but like many young couples, they went their separate ways after graduation. Roberts moved back to his home state of Arizona, while AOC stayed in New York to begin building her post-college life.
However, love had other plans. After several years apart, the two reconnected—and this time, it stuck.
A Rekindled Romance and a Move to New York City
About five years ago, Riley Roberts made the decision to relocate to New York City, rekindling his romance with Ocasio-Cortez. From that point on, their relationship deepened, though it remained largely private—so much so that when AOC burst onto the national political scene in 2018, many were surprised to learn she had a long-term partner.
Despite staying mostly out of the limelight, Roberts played a meaningful role behind the scenes, supporting Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign and appearing briefly in the acclaimed 2019 Netflix documentary, Knock Down the House, which chronicled her grassroots rise to Congress.
The 2021 Met Gala: A Rare Public Appearance
Roberts made one of his most high-profile appearances alongside Ocasio-Cortez at the 2021 Met Gala, an exclusive event known for its glitz, glamour, and elite guest list.
AOC drew global attention with her headline-making gown, designed by Aurora James, emblazoned with the bold message: “Tax the Rich.” The statement made waves—praised by some for its courage, mocked by others for its perceived hypocrisy given the event’s exclusivity and steep ticket prices.
Roberts was by her side, dressed in a classic tuxedo, quietly supporting her amid the storm of media attention. But surprisingly, it wasn’t the politics that landed him in tabloid coverage that week—it was his feet.
After a photo surfaced showing Roberts in sandals, a former Trump adviser mocked his “pale male feet,” calling them “gross” on social media. The odd and ultimately trivial critique made headlines of its own, but also revealed the strange lengths some critics will go to attack those associated with public figures.
AOC’s Doubts and a Deepening Bond
In a candid interview with GQ Magazine, Ocasio-Cortez opened up about her relationship with Roberts, including her early doubts about how their relationship would evolve amidst her meteoric rise in politics.
She admitted that she wondered whether their relationship—particularly with Roberts being a white man—would invite criticism or be seen as inconsistent with her identity as a woman of color and advocate for marginalized communities.
Additionally, she wasn’t sure whether he would be able to adjust to the dramatic changes in her life—from bartender to Congresswoman nearly overnight.
But her concerns soon gave way to clarity.
“He has been so supportive and willing and deeply engaging,” she said. “He uses what we go through as opportunities for personal growth. And it’s incredible.”
Riley Roberts: The Man Behind the Scenes
So who exactly is Riley Roberts outside of his relationship with one of America’s most talked-about politicians?
Roberts, now in his mid-30s, is a technology consultant and web developer. He’s worked with various startups and tech firms, including a stint with HomeBinder, an online home management platform. His work often focuses on user experience (UX) and digital marketing strategies for tech clients.
Raised in a wealthy suburb of Arizona, Roberts reportedly comes from a stable background. His mother is a real estate agent, and he’s described by friends as highly intelligent, introverted, and deeply curious.
Interestingly, despite his tech-savvy career and access to elite political circles, Roberts has managed to keep a low profile. He doesn’t appear to chase the spotlight, nor does he comment publicly on politics or current events. Instead, he remains a steady presence in AOC’s life—one she has described as “a rock” amid the chaos of public office.
Financial Mystery: How Wealthy Is Riley Roberts?
Roberts’ finances have occasionally been the subject of public curiosity—especially after AOC’s financial disclosures revealed her own relatively modest net worth (around $125,000 as of recent reports). Since the couple is not legally married, Roberts is not required to disclose his assets, leading Forbes to describe his finances as “the black box at the center of Ocasio-Cortez’s finances.”
Still, given his steady career in tech and residence in New York City, it’s safe to assume that Roberts is financially secure. However, there’s little public information beyond that.
Engagement Confirmed in 2022
After years of speculation, AOC confirmed in 2022 that she and Roberts were officially engaged. The news was met with a flood of congratulations, as many supporters of the congresswoman were thrilled to see her find stability and love in the midst of such a demanding career.
Their engagement marked a rare public milestone in an otherwise quiet relationship. Despite their long history, the couple has maintained a deliberate boundary between public service and private life, a strategy that has served them well.
Even Ocasio-Cortez’s mother, Blanca, has spoken highly of the match, telling UK media that the couple “do very well with children from the family” and adding, “I hope they get married soon.”
Riley Roberts talks to the camera as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez covers her eyes in this TV still from the 2019 documentary Knock Down the House. Source: IMDB
What’s Next for the Couple?
While there has been no official announcement regarding a wedding date, the couple appears to be enjoying their engagement while continuing to navigate their increasingly public lives.
They were seen celebrating holidays together in cozy, intimate settings—AOC once posted a festive Christmas photo showing the couple in matching pajamas with their dog Deco—a rare but heartwarming glimpse into their personal lives.
For now, Riley Roberts remains a somewhat mysterious figure: private, unassuming, and refreshingly absent from the political fray. Yet those who know the couple insist his role is anything but small. Behind one of the most powerful and talked-about women in Washington is a man who has been there from the very beginning—quietly supportive, deeply loyal, and content to let her shine.
Final Thoughts: A Relationship Rooted in Respect
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Riley Roberts represent a modern power couple—one rooted not in glitz or celebrity but in shared values, mutual support, and years of growth. Their story is one of resilience, from young college activists to nationally recognized figures.
Though Roberts may not be a household name, he’s been an instrumental part of AOC’s journey, offering emotional support, stability, and a level-headed presence away from the cameras. Whether they’re walking the red carpet at the Met Gala or enjoying a quiet evening at home, it’s clear their relationship is built on more than appearances—it’s built on trust, partnership, and love.
