Welcome to Facts Behind the Fiction
The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are fiction, but there are LOTS of facts about Congress, the US Capitol, and civics in general packed in every chapter and every episode. Read here for FACTS BEHIND THE FICTION that you can use in your classroom.
Quitting Congress
You've heard about the wave of retirements among members of Congress.
More than 50 members of the House of Representatives - 12% of members - have either retired, left to run for another office, died, or simply resigned from the 118th Congress. Sixteen Senators have also departed Capitol Hill.
There's even a name for it: the Casualty List.
They aren't the only ones leaving. Staffers are considering leaving, too.
Thanksgiving Recess
The Mendoza family celebrates Thanksgiving back in California, but Congressman Mendoza is working.
King of the Hill: Senate or House?
As the Constitutional Convention was debating what sort of government it wanted, Virginia delegate George Mason had a vision: one house would be the “grand depository of the democratic principle of government.” This became the House of Representatives, the place where Fina's father works.
Fellow Virginian James Madison had another idea: create a second, smaller group of lawmakers designed to be deliberative and independent. This became the Senate.
But which is more important? Or more powerful?
Battle of the DC Christmas Trees
There are two big Christmas Tree ceremonies in DC. Guess which one is the oldest?
Episode 14: Who’s the Boss of Congress?
Who’s the boss of Congress? What’s their power?
It all comes down to money.
Is it Legal for Families of Congress to Protest?
Is it illegal for the relative of a member of Congress to protest in front of the U.S. Capitol?
Gang of Eight
Congress has been trying to pass comprehensive immigration reform since 1986 when President Reagan signed the last one into law.
