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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the affordable apartment that was a central issue throughout his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans right away following his electoral win in November.

"This decision rested on keeping my family safe and the imperative to directing my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability the city's residents supported," Mamdani said in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, an area famous for its diverse cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the best of New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving there, it will continue to reside a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

A Contentious Issue

In his election campaign, Mamdani linked his key pledge – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his tenure, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it should be a place for public city functions, and championed a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will experience an environment far removed from his humble Astoria digs.

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

Internally, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated to reflect the home's original era.

The compound, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also has fortified protections to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

Some residents have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, which means the city regulates on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing exceeds the average income.

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

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.