New York's next mayor states his intention to live in historic Gracie Mansion
New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.
A Historic Residence
Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.
Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, did not confirm this decision right away following his victory in November.
"The choice rested on keeping my family safe and the need to dedicating my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability voters elected me on," stated Mamdani in a statement.
Leaving Astoria
His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.
"To the people of Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.
"Although my address will change there, Astoria will continue to reside within me and the work I do," he added.
Political Debate
During his election campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.
But his critics, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the apartment although he is from a prominent family.
Previous Exceptions
Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.
Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.
In his view, Bloomberg argued it should be a space for official events, and pushed for a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.
A Stately Residence
As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience a setting far removed from his modest Astoria apartment.
Adorned in cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house situated by the East River.
Internally, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.
The property, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also includes increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.
Ghostly Tales
A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.
Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.
Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care the skeptics say," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."
A Critical Policy Issue
His former home is rent stabilised, which means the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.
City residents see such units as valuable lifelines as the price of rent exceeds what many can afford.
Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.
Per figures from the property website Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.