New York's next mayor confirms his intention to make his home in the storied Gracie Mansion
New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue in his run for office.
A Historic Residence
Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors after the World War II era.
However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, hesitated to declare this decision right away after his electoral win in November.
"My choice rested on keeping my family safe and the importance of directing my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday.
A Fond Farewell
He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area famous for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining.
"To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.
"Although my address will change in Astoria, it will continue to reside within me and the work I do," he added.
Campaign Controversy
In his election campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.
However his rivals, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he is from a famous family.
A House Not Always Used
Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.
Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.
In his view, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the older mansion.
A Vastly Different Setting
Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs.
With its cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.
Within, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished to reflect the home's early 19th-century origins.
The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.
Haunted History
A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.
Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floorboards made strange noises.
Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."
Affordable Housing Lifeline
Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, a policy where the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.
Tenants 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 real estate platform Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.
