Get a bidet and a cat: New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani moved into Gracie Mansion

On January 12, the grounds of Gracie Mansion on the Upper East Side were filled with moving boxes. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani officially moved into his new residence. AMNY tells in more detail.

"Today is moving day," Mamdani told reporters during a press conference at the mansion on January 12.

"Tonight will be my first night at Gracie. We're so grateful to everyone who's already welcomed us so warmly on the Upper East Side. I'm glad to be back in the neighborhood where I grew up. It's within walking distance of many of the museums I visited as a teenager in this city," he said.

House of the People

The new mayor immediately emphasized that the 18th-century mansion should not be perceived as private property.

He repeatedly called it "the people's house."

On the subject: Unusual underground inauguration: Mamdani to take oath at abandoned metro station

Mamdani recalled the building's long and sometimes unexpected history.

Over the years, the space has housed ice cream stands, public restrooms, English language courses, sewing workshops, and a Parks Department warehouse.

"Gracie lived many lives," he concluded. "And that legacy must not be forgotten."

Accessibility for city residents

Mamdani wants to keep the mansion accessible and open to New Yorkers who aren't usually invited there.

He promised to expand the use of the space beyond ceremonial events and official receptions.

When asked whether traditions such as cultural heritage evenings would continue, the mayor replied that no decisions had yet been made.

He emphasized that he wants to make Gracie a place where residents can "recognize themselves" and not just see it on television.

Mamdani joked that he didn't pay any deposit for the accommodation.

The official noted that he and his wife, Rama Duvaji, consider themselves temporary custodians, not the owners of the mansion.

What changes are planned?

The mayor intends to make some changes, but not all decisions have been made yet.

When asked what exactly he plans to change inside the mansion, Mamdani said that discussions are still ongoing.

Nevertheless, the mayor confirmed several household priorities.

Among them is the installation of a bidet. These are plumbing fixtures that attach to the toilet and are used for post-use hygiene.

Among other things, he recalled his long-standing desire to get a cat and noted that, due to an allergy to cats, he is currently undergoing a course of injections to make this possible.

The way of life will remain the same

Despite the change of address, Mamdani emphasized that his daily habits will not change: he will continue to use the metro, buses, and Citi Bike.

Mamdani plans to continue spending time "on the streets" of the city with New Yorkers, rather than hiding behind the gates of the mansion.

"I can change where I go to sleep at the end of the day," the mayor said. "But I won't change how I interact with the amazing people of New York City."

As for the rumors about ghosts in Gracie Mansion, Mamdani admitted that he has not yet encountered any.

He also said he did not find a note rumored to have been left for him by former Mayor Eric Adams.

When asked whether he plans to retain the mansion's current staff, particularly chefs and other employees, Mamdani said he has no intention of replacing anyone.

He praised the workers and especially thanked the Parks Department staff. He said they had spent the last 12 days preparing the building for the move. The mayor noted that he had "nothing but respect and admiration for their work."

Apartment in Astoria

Speaking about the couple's Astoria apartment, Mamdani said their lease expires at the end of the month.

He noted that the deposit would cover the final payment.

So the arrangement of the residence is going according to plan: the bidet is already in place, the cat is on the way.