[4][5] He was praised by both Democratics and Republicans for his passionate and outspoken advocacy on numerous issues, building a reputation for fighting on behalf of government accountability and working families.
[10] Prior to running for office, Kowalko became a community advocate on a range of issues, including heating assistance for low-income families.
[15] He is known for being an advocate of open government and has also sponsored legislation focused on consumers, public utilities, health care, and state worker pensions.
"[18] Kowalko's participation in local community meetings and strong constituent support in his district has been cited as allowing him to take on his own party leadership.
"[12] In March 2015, Kowalko and State Senator Dave Lawson sponsored a bi-partisan bill to allow parents and their children to "opt out" of statewide standardized testing.
[23] Kowalko and Lawson criticized the action and attempted the first veto override since 1977, but it ultimately failed in the House after being blocked from debate by Schwartzkopf.
[27][28] Kowalko argued that the executive order would lead to budget cuts that would harm the most vulnerable Delawareans and increase the tax burdens on poor and middle class residents.
[6] Fellow progressive legislators, such as Paul Baumbach, Eric Morrison, and Madinah Wilson-Anton, cited him as an inspiration, while Representative Edward Osienski described him as a respected mentor.
[32] In June 2024, lawmakers change the law to prevent future attempts to require Medicare Advantage for state retirees.