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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue during his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key issue, was not quick to announce he would live there promptly following his electoral win in November.

"This decision rested on keeping my family safe and the need to directing my complete efforts on enacting the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its abundance of immigrant populations and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving there, it will continue to reside inside me and my work," he said.

Political Debate

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the apartment although he came from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his private home on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and pushed for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria apartment.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished to reflect the home's early 19th-century origins.

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

Supernatural Speculation

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, meaning the city imposes caps on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent rises faster than what many can afford.

It was reported Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.