Wisconsin Governor Candidate Survives Plane’s Emergency Landing

Wisconsin Republican gubernatorial candidate and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany experienced a near-tragic incident on Saturday night. Tiffany and his pilot sustained only minor injuries after their small plane lost power and made an emergency landing in Lake Wausau.

Emergency Landing Details

According to Tiffany, a four-seat Bonanza aircraft was approaching Wausau Downtown Airport when it lost power. This occurred following Tiffany’s attendance at the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner. The plane was forced to make a water landing in the lake.

“The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau,” Tiffany shared on X. After the plane hit the water, Tiffany and the pilot immediately contacted 911, but the aircraft began to fill with water and sink.

“As the plane began to submerge, we exited the aircraft and swam to a shallow area, where we waited until emergency responders reached us by boat,” Tiffany explained.

Rescue and Recovery

Tiffany and the pilot were rescued from the water and transported to Aspirus Wausau Hospital with minor injuries. Tiffany expressed gratitude to the pilot and the Wausau Fire Department for the swift response. “They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care,” Tiffany said.

Tiffany’s wife, Chris, was with him at the hospital following the ordeal. He expressed his gratitude and relief, emphasizing the preciousness of life.

Public Reaction

Social media saw an outpouring of support and relief after Tiffany shared details of the emergency. People expressed gratitude that Tiffany and those on board the plane were safe.

Tiffany currently serves Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District and is campaigning as the Republican candidate for governor in the upcoming state election. The cause of the plane’s power loss is under investigation.