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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point during his election bid.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors after the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central platform, hesitated to declare this decision immediately after his triumph in November.

"The choice rested on the security of my family and the need to directing all of my focus on carrying out the agenda for affordability voters supported," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its abundance of cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

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

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, the community will always live inside me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

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

However his rivals, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he is from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for official events, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria home.

With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Internally, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated to reflect the home's early 19th-century origins.

The property, which reportedly 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 spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments crucial resources as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.