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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core platform, was not quick to announce his residency plans immediately following his victory in November.

"The choice was based on our family's safety and the need to directing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability New Yorkers voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," he noted.

"Although my address will change there, the community will forever remain within me and the work I do," he said.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

However his critics, mainly former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the apartment although he hails from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a space for public city functions, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting far removed from his humble Astoria home.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Inside, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed to reflect the home's original era.

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

Haunted History

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent outpaces what many can afford.

It was reported Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.