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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point throughout his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, was not quick to announce this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"The choice rested on keeping my family safe and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on implementing the platform on affordability New Yorkers supported," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district renowned for its abundance of cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, the community will always live a part of me and the work I do," he added.

Political Debate

In his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his core platform – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

But his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing even though he came from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it should be a place for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.

Featuring cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Internally, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

The estate, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, meaning the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford.

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.