After repeatedly garnering less than 1% of support in surveys, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) withdrew Tuesday from the 2020 presidential race.

Despite her strong, progressive viewpoints centered around reproductive rights and women’s issues, Gillibrand’s campaign had been fundamentally focused on attacking President Trump. This tactic is not only incredibly divisive, but not also took attention away from important topics during her campaign.

Gillibrand’s exit from the presidential race could benefit remaining Democratic candidates that are more focused on bridging the divide between the political left and right instead of perpetuating it.

While it is certainly reasonable to disagree with Trump’s political agenda and fight for change, Gillibrand has notoriously used name calling when discussing the president, a method that delegitimizes her perspectives.

A recent poll conducted by Business Insider revealed that about one third of Democratic participants believed their party could lose the upcoming presidential election if the nominee did not successfully obtain Republican support. Moderatism is imperative for the upcoming election, especially due to the divisiveness inflicted from both the left and right during President Trump’s time in office so far.

With Gillibrand out of the running, more public attention can be directed towards candidates that promise compromise over finger-pointing.

Lauren Spiezia is a sophomore double majoring in journalism and political science. Her column appears bi-weekly. She can be reached at lespiezi@syr.edu.