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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate throughout his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors from the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key platform, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately after his electoral win in November.

"My choice rested on the security of my family and the need to directing my full attention on enacting the platform on affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a district known for its diverse cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, it will always live within me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

A Contentious Issue

During his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

But his opponents, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment although he came from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a space for public city functions, and championed a major refurbishment of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his modest Astoria home.

Featuring cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house situated by the East River.

Within, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The property, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also boasts 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 partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent exceeds the means of many residents.

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

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