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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that sparked debate throughout his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key issue, did not confirm this decision immediately after his victory in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the importance of directing my complete efforts on carrying out the agenda for affordability the city's residents voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district known for its diverse immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: many thanks for showing us the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

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

A Contentious Issue

During his campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

But his critics, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the apartment even though he hails from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a venue for official events, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will experience surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.

Featuring cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house situated by the East River.

Inside, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's historical period.

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

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants 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 floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, meaning the city imposes caps on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants see such units as crucial resources as the housing expenses outpaces what many can afford.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the real estate platform Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.