The editorial board of The New York Times is not happy about the length of presidential campaigns. What’s the problem? Nobody has to pay attention to politics. In fact, most people probably don’t. Nobody has to start running for president two years out. Those of us who enjoy politics don’t mind the length of campaigns. It gives us something to read, think, talk, and write about. There’s another reason why long campaigns aren’t objectionable: They allow us to get to know the candidates. Some, such as Hillary Clinton, are already well known. Others, such as Barack Obama, are virtually unknown. We need to get to know him, to see how he handles himself under various conditions. The last thing we want is a president who falls to pieces under stress. The Times makes it seem as though all of us are holding our breath until the election. If that were so, then yes, the campaign would be too long. But we’re not holding our breath. We’re living our lives. Let the campaign begin!