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.
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?
Protesting 101
People have peacefully protested outside the U.S. Capitol since 1894. What are the rules?
High School Art in the U.S. Capitol
High school artists can have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol.
The Catholic Church in Washington D.C.
What’s the history of Catholicism in Washington, DC? Is there a real Our Lady of Refuge church, as described in The Fina Mendoza Mysteries?
The House Chaplain
The U.S. Supreme Court decided that prayers on the House floor do not violate the separation of church and state.
Bird Myths
Myths help us mere mortals understand the big questions of life: birth, death, good and evil, and who we are as human beings.
Gang of Eight
Congress has been trying to pass comprehensive immigration reform since 1986 when President Reagan signed the last one into law.
Episode 5: Eagles Everywhere
Is that a dead bird on top of the head of Freedom, atop the Capitol?