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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that sparked debate during his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors since the post-war period.

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

"My choice was based on the security of my family and the need to directing my complete efforts on enacting the affordability agenda New Yorkers elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its vibrant immigrant communities and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, it will forever remain within me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Campaign Controversy

During his election campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

However his opponents, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit although he came from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side during his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for official events, and pushed for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will experience surroundings very different than his modest Astoria home.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Within, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished consistent with the home's historical period.

The property, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care the skeptics say," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city regulates on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent exceeds the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.