I think that although it is early, it does a disservice to the lesser known candidates in both parties if political discussion is squelched for no particular reason other than the fact that the election is a long way off. The lesser known candidates need all the time they can get to improve their name recognition and get their message out.
Even candidates that we all know don't have much chance of winning the primary need to be heard, as their views are taken into consideration when the party platform is developed, and the views of minor candidates can affect the views of the major candidates.
Only the incumbents and well known politicians benefit when political discussion is stymied. I hope moderators will realize this, and take it into account when deciding what threads to close. I think our nation is best served if we don't go into the final stages of the campaign only knowing about Hillary, Obama, McCain, and Giuliani.
As long as discussion remains civil, I would prefer to see the threads stay open.