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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

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

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core issue, did not confirm this decision right away after his victory in November.

"The choice was based on the security of my family and the need to directing my full attention on enacting the platform on affordability voters supported," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its diverse immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying the best of New York City," he noted.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit although he came from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a place for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment a stark contrast to his humble Astoria home.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Inside, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers see such units as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds the average income.

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

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.