Campaign Finance

• Soros dips his toe in the super PAC waters: George Soros, the financier who has spent millions in the past on elections, is writing his first checks of the 2012 cycle. He is donating $1 million each to left leaning groups America Votes and American Bridge 21st Century. (National Journal)
• Super PAC money direct from Japan: 7-11, wholly owned by Japanese company Seven & i Holdings, donated $25,000 to a super PAC supporting embattled incumbent Senator Dick Lugar (R-IN). This may be the first disclosed direct corporate contribution from a foreign company in the 2012 election cycle. (Republic Report)
• Super PACs outspend candidates: Super PACs have spent more to support Indiana state treasurer Richard Mourdock in his GOP primary against Sen. Dick Lugar than his own campaign. (iWatch News)

Government

• OPM struggles socially: The Office of Personnel Management released version 2.0 of their open government plan on Friday. The document reveals that, while they have taken positive steps, the agency struggled to embrace social media and a changing agency culture. (Next Gov)

International

• Portugal struggling to fight corruption: Portugal’s anti-corruption systems are in disarray in the wake of European austerity measures, according to a new report from Transparency International. (WSJ – Corruption Currents)
• Pirates grow through technology: As the Pirate Party gains ground in German elections they are using technology to manage their growth. (Tech President)