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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors after the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, was not quick to announce this decision immediately following his electoral win in November.

"My choice was based on keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability voters elected me on," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in Astoria, Queens, a district renowned for its diverse cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Political Debate

In his campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements.

But his rivals, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the apartment even though he came from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for official events, and championed a major refurbishment of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria home.

With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated to reflect the home's historical period.

The compound, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also has enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as valuable lifelines as the price of rent outpaces the average income.

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

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.