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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue in his election bid.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors since the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key platform, was not quick to announce this decision immediately after his victory in November.

"The choice was based on keeping my family safe and the need to dedicating all of my focus on implementing the agenda for affordability the city's residents elected me on," Mamdani said in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area known for its diverse immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change there, the community will always live within me and the work I do," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

In his election campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he is from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it should be a space for public city functions, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment far removed from his modest Astoria apartment.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's original era.

The estate, which is said to has several bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

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

The departing mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, meaning the city regulates on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

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