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The city's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point during his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for most New York City mayors since the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central issue, hesitated to declare this decision promptly following his triumph in November.

"The choice rested on keeping my family safe and the importance of directing all of my focus on enacting the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its diverse immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he said.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani connected his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Some 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 during his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for public city functions, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment far removed from his humble Astoria home.

With its pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house situated by the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's original era.

The estate, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

A number of people have alleged 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 closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, which means the city regulates on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford.

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

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