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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point during his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors since the post-war period.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key platform, hesitated to declare his residency plans right away after his triumph in November.

"The choice came down to the security of my family and the need to focusing my complete efforts on enacting the agenda for affordability the city's residents voted for," Mamdani said in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district known for its abundance of immigrant populations and culinary diversity.

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

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, it will continue to reside inside me and my work," he said.

Campaign Controversy

In his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his rivals, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing despite the fact that he is from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a venue for public city functions, and championed significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his modest Astoria apartment.

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

Internally, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

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

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent stabilised, which means the city sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents.

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

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