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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point in his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central policy, did not confirm his residency plans immediately following his victory in November.

"My choice rested on the security of my family and the need to dedicating all of my focus on enacting the agenda for affordability New Yorkers supported," Mamdani said on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, an area famous for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, the community will always live a part of me and my work," he added.

Political Debate

During his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

But his critics, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit even though he is from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a venue for civic gatherings, and championed an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will experience an environment very different than his humble Astoria apartment.

Featuring cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

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

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

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "I don't care what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

Tenants see such units as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds what many can afford.

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

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.