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New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors from the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a core policy, was not quick to announce he would live there promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the imperative to directing all of my focus on implementing the platform on affordability the city's residents elected me on," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its diverse immigrant populations and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for demonstrating what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live there, Astoria will forever remain inside me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

Campaign Controversy

During his election campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant.

However his rivals, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the apartment although he hails from a prominent family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a place for public city functions, 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 experience surroundings a stark contrast to his previous Astoria home.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

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

The compound, which is said to has several bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent stabilised, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the housing expenses rises faster than what many can afford.

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 one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.