William B. Cooper spent several years in public service, including roles as a Justice of the Peace and Sheriff of Sussex County. He later served multiple terms in the state house and was appointed as an associate justice of the Court of Common Pleas for Sussex County. Cooper also held the office of Governor of Delaware for five years. His career reflects a strong foundation in public administration and legal expertise.

William B. Cooper's political identity is marked by a blend of progressive legal reform and a strong temper, leading to a unique approach in advocating for penal code modernization. Cooper's insistence on updating the penal code reveals an ideologically agile stance, balancing a forward-thinking legal perspective with a pragmatic acknowledgment of its practical implications. His high temper and occasional use of strong language suggest a rhetorical style that is both forceful and occasionally confrontational, adding a layer of unpredictability to his political persona. This combination of progressive ideals and a fiery demeanor creates a compelling tension that invites deeper inquiry into his motivations and methods.