 He has been called "one of the most influential tech policy operatives you've never heard of" whose "fingerprints are all over some of the biggest technology and telecommunications statutes of the last two decades"; “an influential expert in the politics and policy of technology”; "a walking encyclopedia on the arcane details of tech and telecom statutes"; with “an unrivaled understanding of telecommunications law and history” and knowledge of “telecommunications and Congress unrivaled in Washington.”

Crowell is considered to be “a major architect of the FCC”s broadband plan,” and a key participant in drafting the Telecommunications Act of 1996.In lawmaking, he was considered "a leading figure in… developing compromise," and an advocate for consumers and the public interest.FCC Chairman Genachowski said