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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate in his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key platform, did not confirm his residency plans promptly following his triumph in November.

"This decision came down to the security of my family and the need to dedicating my full attention on implementing the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area known for its abundance of immigrant populations and global cuisine.

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

"Although my address will change there, Astoria will continue to reside inside me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

A Contentious Issue

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his critics, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing even though he is from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it ought to be a venue for official events, and advocated for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished consistent with the home's historical period.

The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has fortified protections to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants see such units as valuable lifelines as the housing expenses exceeds what many can afford.

It was reported 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.