Post by : Meena Ariff

New York City’s incoming Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed he will take up residence in Gracie Mansion, the historic home of most mayors since World War II. This announcement has put to rest ongoing speculation regarding his departure from his rent-stabilised apartment in Astoria, Queens, a subject that became pivotal during his campaign.

“Choosing this residence was essential for our family’s safety and to dedicate my attention to the affordability initiatives that New Yorkers support,” Mamdani stated.

Mamdani’s abode in Astoria, known for its vibrant immigrant community and culinary diversity, has served as his base for several years. “Thank you, Astoria, for embodying the essence of New York City, and while I may no longer reside there, its spirit will always influence my work,” he added.

Throughout the campaign, Mamdani connected his key policy on rent control to his personal housing experience. Critics such as ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo raised concerns regarding his choice to inhabit a rent-stabilised apartment, considering his prominent family ties—his mother is filmmaker Mira Nair, and his father Mahmood Mamdani is a respected professor at Columbia University.

Not all mayors opt for Gracie Mansion; for instance, Michael Bloomberg preferred his Upper East Side mansion during his three terms, using Gracie primarily for official functions and holding preservation renovations.

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion features a butter-yellow façade, green shutters, and white railings, with interiors that reflect its Federal-era heritage. Situated along the East River, the five-bedroom mansion offers increased security for the mayor and their family.

Moreover, Gracie Mansion is rumored to host unexplained occurrences. Chirlane McCray, wife of former Mayor Bill de Blasio, recounted experiences of doors mysteriously opening and unsettling creaks in the floorboards. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams confirmed, “There are definitely ghosts there, man.”

Mamdani's Astoria apartment, which costs about $2,300 monthly, is strikingly below the city’s average one-bedroom rent of $3,500. His relocation to Gracie Mansion signifies a notable transition from a humble life in Queens to the historic significance and duties encompassed by the city’s official mayoral abode.

#World News #Zohran Mamdani