New York City's new mayor has rolled up to Gracie Mansion with a splash—literally, as he plans to install bidets in the historic residence.
On Monday, January 12, 2026, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and First Lady Rama Duwaji officially moved into Gracie Mansion, the 227-year-old mayoral home located in Carl Schurz Park at East End Avenue and 88th Street in Yorkville, New York, N.Y. The couple, who had previously lived in a rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria, Queens, made the move citing security reasons. Mamdani, known for his progressive stances, also hinted at personal touches like bidets and possibly adopting a cat, despite his allergies.
The issue of updating a historic property like Gracie Mansion has sparked debate among New Yorkers. While some see it as a chance to modernize, others question whether such changes respect the home’s legacy.
Mamdani didn’t shy away from his plans to tweak the mansion’s amenities. “One thing that we will change is we will be installing a few bidets into Gracie Mansion,” he declared, according to the New York Post. It’s a curious priority for a residence steeped in history—why not focus on preserving its character instead of turning it into a personal spa?
The mayor seems aware of the optics, though, tempering his enthusiasm. “That’s an aspirational hope. We’ll see if we can actually get it done,” he added. Still, one wonders if taxpayer dollars will fund this bathroom upgrade or if it’s just a quirky campaign promise.
Mamdani also emphasized his role as a temporary steward of the property. While no security deposit was required, he and Duwaji aim to treat the mansion with care. But stewardship, as he describes it, goes beyond mere upkeep.
The mayor wants to make Gracie Mansion a symbol of the city’s civic identity. His vision includes inviting more New Yorkers to experience the space, particularly those who rarely get such access. It’s a noble idea, but will it turn a historic home into a public circus?
Mamdani’s commitment to staying grounded is evident in his travel plans. He intends to keep using the subway, buses, and city bikes for his commute from Yorkville. That’s commendable for a politician, though skeptics might ask how long that promise will last in the face of mayoral demands.
His progressive label as an “unapologetic” advocate for far-left policies raises eyebrows among those wary of overreaching agendas. Will living in such a stately home soften his edge, or will it embolden more sweeping changes across the city? The jury’s still out.
On a lighter note, Mamdani poked fun at tales from his predecessor, Eric Adams, who claimed the mansion was haunted. “I haven’t yet met the ghost or heard from the ghost,” he quipped. It’s a humorous jab, but it sidesteps the deeper question of how he’ll handle the weight of history in that house.
The couple’s personal life also made headlines during the move. First Lady Duwaji, an artist, seemed less thrilled about becoming an Upper East Sider, according to a recent cover story. That reluctance might resonate with everyday New Yorkers who feel disconnected from elite enclaves.
Adding to the domestic quirks, Mamdani hinted at adopting a cat despite his allergies. He’s even getting shots to manage the issue. It’s a small but relatable struggle—though perhaps not the most pressing concern for a city leader.
The bigger picture here is how Mamdani balances tradition with his push for accessibility. Opening Gracie Mansion to more citizens sounds inclusive, but it risks diluting the property’s historic significance. There’s a fine line between public engagement and turning a landmark into a tourist trap.
Ultimately, Mamdani’s move into Gracie Mansion signals a new chapter for New York City. His promises to remain approachable—via public transit and open doors—are worth watching. But so are his policy priorities, which could reshape the city in ways many taxpayers might not embrace.
