Zohran Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion with his wife

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji, moved into Gracie Mansion, the city’s official mayoral residence, and he said the relocation was partly to meet new security requirements.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji, have moved into Gracie Mansion, the city’s official mayoral residence. The move followed a brief press appearance on the mansion’s riverfront lawn while workers carried boxes into the house. Mamdani said the relocation was partly to address new security requirements. The change draws attention because it contrasts with the couple’s previous one-bedroom Queens apartment. Key details: - The couple left a one-bedroom Queens apartment that the article reports cost $2,300 per month, lacked a washer and dryer and was prone to flooding from a busted pipe. - Gracie Mansion is described as an 18th-century house used as the official mayoral residence since 1942 and reported to have about 11,000 square feet, a private chef, an ornate ballroom and a veranda overlooking the East River. - The house includes historical features noted in the article, including the original fireplace associated with Alexander Hamilton, and a previous mayor mentioned at least one ghost. - Mamdani, described as a 34-year-old democratic socialist, acknowledged the move might seem at odds with his pledge to lead a government that reflects ordinary New Yorkers. - He said he plans to open the mansion to New Yorkers who do not often visit such places and mentioned an "aspirational hope" of installing bidets as a cosmetic change. Summary: The relocation highlights a contrast between Mamdani’s prior living situation in Queens and the historic, larger residence on the Upper East Side. The move was announced as partly driven by security needs, and Mamdani has said he intends to make parts of the home accessible to more New Yorkers while considering modest changes. Further details about specific plans or timelines were not provided.