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New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for most New York City mayors after the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core policy, was not quick to announce this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"My choice came down to our family's safety and the need to directing all of my focus on enacting the agenda for affordability voters voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in Astoria, Queens, an area famous for its abundance of immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, Astoria will continue to reside inside me and the work I do," he added.

A Contentious Issue

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

But his critics, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a place for official events, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

As he settles into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will experience an environment very different than his modest Astoria home.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

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

The compound, which is said to has several bedrooms, also has enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Past occupants have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the housing expenses outpaces the means of many residents.

Records showed Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

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