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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that sparked debate in his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors from the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key platform, did not confirm his residency plans right away after his triumph in November.

"The choice was based on our family's safety and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on enacting the agenda for affordability voters voted for," Mamdani said on Monday.

Thanking a Neighborhood

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live in Astoria, it will forever remain within me and my work," he added.

Political Debate

During his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his opponents, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the affordable housing despite the fact that he is from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting far removed from his previous Astoria digs.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, which means the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the housing expenses exceeds the means of many residents.

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

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.