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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that was a central issue in his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors after the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core platform, was not quick to announce his residency plans promptly after his triumph in November.

"This decision came down to our family's safety and the imperative to dedicating my complete efforts on enacting the agenda for affordability voters voted for," Mamdani said in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a community famous for its abundance of cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, the community will continue to reside a part of me and the work I do," he said.

Campaign Controversy

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

However his rivals, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the affordable housing despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it ought to be a venue for civic gatherings, and championed a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience an environment very different than his modest Astoria digs.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's early 19th-century origins.

The property, which allegedly has several bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

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

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, which means the city regulates on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants see such units as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.