In the world of political power couples, Riley Roberts stands out—not for grandstanding, but for offering steadfast support and a solid personal career life. Known as the long-time partner of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), he brings both technical expertise and emotional grounding to their relationship. Though not often in the spotlight, Roberts plays a quietly influential role behind the scenes.
1. From College Sweethearts to Engagement: A Story of Longstanding Love
Riley Roberts and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez first crossed paths at Boston University, where they were both undergraduates attending a weekly student town-hall called Coffee & Conversations. These early interactions blossomed into a romantic relationship during college, marked by intellectual sparring and mutual admiration.
After graduation, their paths diverged—Roberts returned to Arizona while Ocasio-Cortez remained on the East Coast. Roughly five years later, they reconnected around 2015. Roberts eventually relocated to New York, moving into their Bronx apartment and working remotely from there
In April 2022, Roberts proposed to AOC in her family’s hometown in Puerto Rico. Reflecting on the proposal, she shared that he had to “woo” her and reinforce why marriage made sense after so many life changes. AOC affectionately remarked, “I feel like I won the men lottery in my life,” describing Roberts as someone who celebrates her success rather than feeling threatened by it.
2. Professional Path: Web Development, Marketing & Digital Strategy
While largely out of the spotlight, Roberts has quietly built a career in web development and digital marketing. Originally from Arizona, he has roots in a well-off area and attended a prestigious high school before heading to BU for college.
Post-college, he returned to Arizona and launched websites for small businesses, serving as a UX growth consultant. His now-deleted LinkedIn reveals he also worked in marketing for HomeBinder, an online home-management service, around 2014. Additionally, he’s expressed a passion for helping subscription startups thrive through Facebook Ads, conversion optimization, and UX design.
Roberts also contributed his marketing skills to AOC’s early campaign efforts, assisting with digital strategy and Facebook outreach, helping propel her into the political spotlight.
3. A Low-Key Presence: Private in a Public Relationship
Despite being part of a high-profile couple, Riley Roberts maintains a private, low-key presence. During college, friends weren’t even aware AOC and Roberts were dating until years later. Today, his appearances on her social media remain infrequent, and he is often mistaken for a campaign volunteer rather than her partner
Their discretion is notable in an era where partners of public figures are often thrust into the limelight. Roberts intentionally avoids the glare, choosing to support from behind the scenes.
4. His Role in AOC’s Support System: Strategist, Companion, Anchor
Roberts isn’t just a partner—he’s a trusted advisor and emotional anchor. From assisting her during her groundbreaking 2018 campaign—which was chronicled in Netflix’s Knock Down the House—to walking her to the Capitol and serving as a grounding presence, Roberts has been integral in both her personal and professional life.
AOC has praised Roberts for being a partner who dives into challenges, not someone who watches from the sidelines. She values his deep engagement with her work, stating he uses their shared experiences “as opportunities for personal growth”. Moreover, AOC’s mother, Blanca, has publicly commended Roberts, calling him the “most loving, supporting person I’ve seen” and expressing hope for their future together.
5. Public Moments: Met Gala and Documentary Exposure
Though private, Riley Roberts has occasionally surfaced in the public eye. He walked the red carpet at the 2021 Met Gala alongside AOC, who wore a statement gown with “Tax the Rich” emblazoned on the back—a moment that made headlines across the globe
He was also featured in the 2019 Netflix documentary Knock Down the House, which chronicled AOC’s campaign journey, bringing a glimpse into his involvement in her political ascent
6. Ethics Questions: When Fiancé vs. Spouse Gets Murky
Even a private partner can become part of political scrutiny. In a 2025 ethics review, AOC faced criticism for listing Roberts as both her “spouse” and “non-spouse” on different documents. Documents filed for a sponsored trip to the Met Gala listed him as her spouse, but financial disclosures did not include him—raising questions since spouses are typically required to disclose financial interests
This highlighted the precarious line public figures must tread between personal identity and government optics, even when not yet married.
Conclusion
Riley Roberts may not court fame, but his presence in the narrative of public service is invaluable. From his early days as AOC’s collegiate sparring partner, to his technical and marketing contributions, to being her emotional anchor—Roberts demonstrates the quiet strength behind powerful stories. His ability to stay grounded, while offering unconditional support, makes him a remarkable partner in both life and mission.
