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 2023
The Mendoza family celebrates Thanksgiving back in California, but Congressman Mendoza is working.
Lucky Charms
John McCain had a stash of lucky charms: a compass, a feather, a penny, a rock, and a lucky pen. If he needed a boost, he'd add a pair of L.L. Bean rubber-soled dress shoes.
Political Yard Signs
Yard signs have been a part of American political campaigns since John Quincy Adams ran for president.
What’s a Whip?
Whips may have the most difficult job in Congress: keeping track of members and their votes.
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?
The Scariest Room in the Capitol
During the day, it's crowded with tour groups. At night, it's a bit spooky. They call it the Crypt.
The State of the Union Address
The Founding Fathers thought the State of the Union address was so important, they put it in the Constitution.
Battle of the DC Christmas Trees
There are two big Christmas Tree ceremonies in DC. Guess which one is the oldest?
Let Kids Vote!
Young people have been lobbying for years for the right to vote. Should 16-year-olds be able to vote? 14-year-olds? Fina Mendoza thinks 10-year-olds are mature enough to vote. What do you think?
Episode 18: Campaign Fundraisers
Congressional candidates are always looking for ways to raise money for their political campaigns. A lot of money. One way to attract donors: food.
Episode 17: The Rayburn Garage
Don’t park your car in the Rayburn Garage…unless you don’t mind getting it washed several times a week.
Episode 14: Who’s the Boss of Congress?
Who’s the boss of Congress? What’s their power?
It all comes down to money.