  Local determinations of the Hubble constant $H_0$ favour a higher value than
Planck based on CMB and $\Lambda$CDM. Through a model-independent expansion, we
show that low redshift ($z \lesssim 0.7$) data comprising baryon acoustic
oscillations (BAO), cosmic chronometers and Type Ia supernovae has a preference
for Quintessence models that lower $H_0$ relative to $\Lambda$CDM. In addition,
we confirm that an exponential coupling to dark matter cannot alter this
conclusion in the same redshift range. Our results leave open the possibility
that a coupling in the matter-dominated epoch, potentially even in the dark
ages, may yet save $H_0$ from sinking in the string theory Swampland.
