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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for nearly all New York City mayors since the World War II era.

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

"The choice rested on the security of my family and the need to dedicating my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability voters elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its diverse immigrant populations and culinary diversity.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, Astoria will continue to reside a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

A Contentious Issue

During his election campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the affordable housing despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his tenure, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles 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, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Internally, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The compound, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care what people claim," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, a policy where the city regulates on how much landlords can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the price of rent outpaces the means of many residents.

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

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