Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has declined to comment on reports of a breakup with her fiancé, Riley Roberts, stating that she does not discuss her private life. The congresswoman's comment came when asked by The Post on Wednesday about the rumored split.
This stance on privacy follows Ocasio-Cortez's recent public sharing of her egg-freezing journey, including a video where she administered a self-injection. The congresswoman described the decision as one to "feel more in control of my life" and stated "I feel empowered to make this choice."
Critics have drawn parallels between Ocasio-Cortez's approach to personal disclosures and that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have shared intimate details of their lives through interviews and documentaries while also seeking privacy. The New York Post noted that Ocasio-Cortez has previously used personal revelations to engage with constituents and build her public brand, citing instances like a "Tax the Rich" shirt at a cooking stream and participation in the game "Among Us" during a voter outreach effort.
Roberts, whom Ocasio-Cortez met as a student at Boston University, has largely maintained a low profile. He was featured in the 2019 Netflix documentary "Knocking Down the House" and accompanied Ocasio-Cortez to the Met Gala in 2021, where she wore a "Tax the Rich" dress.
Commentary suggests a perceived inconsistency in public figures selectively disclosing personal information while also asserting a right to privacy. Ocasio-Cortez has been described as an "influencer with good political instincts" whose public persona often blends personal and political messaging.