Central Wisconsin residents were reminded of the importance of quick emergency response when Rep. Tom Tiffany, the Republican nominee for governor, and his pilot safely evacuated a plane that lost power and made an emergency water landing on Lake Wausau.
Incident details
According to Tiffany’s post on X early Sunday morning, the aircraft was returning from the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner when it approached the Wausau Downtown Airport and lost power. The pilot executed a water landing in the shallow portion of Lake Wausau. As the plane began to submerge, both men exited the aircraft and swam to a shallow area while awaiting rescue.
“After landing, we called 911. 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 wrote.
Rescue and medical care
Emergency responders arrived by boat, lifted the two men from the water, and transported them to Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Tiffany said the hospital staff provided “excellent care,” and both he and the pilot sustained only minor injuries.
“They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care. Thankfully, both the pilot and I sustained only minor injuries,” he added.
Political context
Tiffany, who represents Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District, secured the Republican nomination for governor in August. He has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, underscoring the national party’s support for his candidacy. The incident comes as the campaign heads toward the November 3 gubernatorial election, where Tiffany will face Democratic nominee David Crowley, the Milwaukee County Executive.
Crowley expressed relief that no one was seriously hurt, adding a prayerful note to his statement: “I’m grateful to God that Congressman Tiffany and no one else was hurt in this horrifying incident, which could have been a tragedy if not for the heroism of the pilot.”
Community response
Local officials and residents praised the swift actions of the emergency responders and the pilot’s skillful handling of a potentially dangerous situation. The incident highlights the readiness of Wisconsin’s emergency services and the importance of aviation safety protocols in the state’s many lakes and waterways.
While the emergency landing was an unexpected event, it has not altered the trajectory of the upcoming gubernatorial race. Both campaigns remain focused on the issues that matter to Wisconsin families, including economic growth, public safety, and preserving traditional values.
Looking ahead
As the campaign season intensifies, Tiffany’s experience underscores the resilience and faith that many voters associate with his candidacy. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of community preparedness and the dedication of first‑responders who protect residents across the Badger State.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
