Mayors along the Mississippi River are expected to vote on supporting a compact aimed at preventing the diversion of its water. The proposed compact aims to protect the river's water levels and ecology, enhance coordination during disasters, and resolve conflicts among the 10 states along the river. However, the process would require approval from all states, posing challenges in an era of increased political polarization. The fear of water export has prompted political action before, such as the establishment of the Great Lakes Compact in 2008.