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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that was a central issue in his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors from the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, did not confirm this decision promptly after his electoral win in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the importance of focusing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its abundance of immigrant populations and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving there, Astoria will always live inside me and my work," he affirmed.

Political Debate

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his critics, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit even though he came from a prominent family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, kept his residence in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment a stark contrast to his modest Astoria digs.

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

Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's original era.

The property, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also includes fortified protections to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Some residents have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, which means the city regulates on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

City residents see such units as crucial resources as the housing expenses exceeds the average income.

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

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