The 'This Is What AOC's Boyfriend Looks Like?' meme first gained traction after critics of Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez shared photos of her partner, Riley Roberts, hoping to mock his casual appearance and red beard. The internet quickly subverted the intended insult, turning the phrase into a badge of honor for the 'everyman' or using it to mock the obsession critics have with AOC's personal life. The meme template typically features Roberts looking relaxed, often paired with sarcastic captions about 'peak performance' or being 'unbothered.' It has since evolved into a versatile format for contrasting high-stakes political drama with relatable, low-key energy.