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New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate during his election bid.

A Historic Residence

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

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm his residency plans promptly after his triumph in November.

"The choice came down to keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing all of my focus on carrying out the affordability agenda New Yorkers voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community renowned for its vibrant immigrant populations and culinary diversity.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for showing us the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Political Debate

In his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his central policy – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

Yet his rivals, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for civic gatherings, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed to reflect the home's historical period.

The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the cost of housing rises faster than what many can afford.

It was reported Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.