Tom Tiffany, a Republican candidate for governor of Wisconsin and current U.S. Representative, announced that he and a pilot sustained minor injuries after their small plane experienced power loss and had to make an emergency landing in a lake on Saturday night.
The four-seat Bonanza was nearing Wausau Downtown Airport when it lost power following Tiffany’s appearance at an event in La Crosse County.
“The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau,” Tiffany posted on X.
After hitting the water, they quickly called 911, but the plane began taking on water and sinking before help could arrive.
“As the plane started to go under, we got out and swam to a shallow area, where we waited for responders to reach us by boat,” he recounted.
Both men were rescued from the lake and taken to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, with Tiffany stating that their injuries were minor.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the pilot, the Wausau Fire Department, and all of the first responders who came to our aid so quickly,” Tiffany expressed. “They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care.”
Tiffany shared that his wife, Chris, was at his side during his hospital stay following the eventful landing and water rescue.
“God was watching over us tonight, and I am incredibly grateful to be here in the hospital with my wife, Chris, by my side,” he reflected. “Experiences like this really put into perspective how precious life is.”
Since sharing the news of their narrow escape, Tiffany received an outpouring of thoughts and well-wishes on social media.
“My god! What an ordeal. Very grateful everyone is safe,” one commenter noted.
“Very glad you are okay, Congressman Tiffany,” said another.
“Prayers to you and everyone aboard that flight!” commented a third person. “So thankful you are all alive and able to see your loved ones.”
Currently, Tiffany represents Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District and is campaigning as the Republican nominee for governor in the upcoming election. The cause of the power loss is still under investigation.
