To be blunt, Kes held the show back. She as a character was bad enough but she didn't even raise the standards of those around her. Other characters like The Doctor, Neelix, and even Kathryne ...

Early in the series, the Federation and Maquis were joined by a single Talaxian and a single Ocumpan; Neelix and Kes. Neither were Starfleet officers but both became needed members of the crew.