Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani Confirms Move to Gracie Mansion
New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani has announced his decision to reside at Gracie Mansion, the official mayoral residence in Manhattan. Mamdani stated on Monday that this decision was influenced by his family's safety and his commitment to focusing on the affordability agenda he campaigned on.
Background on Residence
Gracie Mansion, which dates to 1799, has served as the residence for most New York City mayors since the World War II era. While Mamdani had not confirmed his intention to reside there immediately following his election victory in November, his statement on Monday clarified his plans. He will depart from his rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria, Queens.
Astoria is known for its diverse immigrant communities and culinary offerings, and is home to a significant number of middle-class families. Mamdani's statement conveyed appreciation for the neighborhood, saying: "To Astoria: thank you for showing us the best of New York City." He added, "While I may no longer live in Astoria, Astoria will always live inside me and the work I do."
Campaign Discussions and Predecessors
During his campaign, Mamdani's platform, which included a 'rent freeze' initiative, was connected to his personal housing situation. His occupancy of a rent-stabilized apartment became a topic of discussion, particularly with rivals such as former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani's mother is filmmaker Mira Nair, and his father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a professor at Columbia University.
Not all previous mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, for example, resided in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which concluded in 2012. Bloomberg had stated his belief that Gracie Mansion should primarily function as a space for public city events and supported a renovation of the property.
Gracie Mansion Features
Mamdani's relocation to Gracie Mansion, expected around his inauguration on January 1, will mark a change from his apartment in Astoria. Gracie Mansion is characterized by its butter yellow exterior paint, green shutters, and white railings, and is situated overlooking the East River. The lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated to reflect its original era. The compound reportedly contains five bedrooms and is equipped with enhanced security measures for the mayor and family.
Allegations of supernatural occurrences within Gracie Mansion have been reported. Chirlane McCray, the wife of former mayor Bill De Blasio, stated that doors occasionally opened and closed independently and floorboards sometimes creaked. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams also asserted in 2022 that "There are ghosts in there."