Wausau, WI – Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany was rescued early Thursday after the four‑seat Bonanza he was aboard lost power and performed an emergency water landing on Lake Wausau. The incident occurred as the aircraft approached Wausau Downtown Airport.

Rescue and medical care

According to the Tiffany campaign, the plane lost engine power just before the runway, prompting the pilot to steer the aircraft toward the lake. Tiffany and the pilot were able to exit the aircraft, swim to shallow water and await assistance. First‑responders arrived by boat, lifted both men from the water and transported them to Aspirus Wausau Hospital for evaluation.

Candidate’s response

After the rescue, Tiffany thanked the pilot for skillful handling of the emergency and praised the rapid response of local emergency crews. “I’m grateful for the professionalism of our first responders and the calm actions of our pilot,” Tiffany said in a brief statement.

Impact on campaign

The incident has drawn attention to the candidate’s personal resilience and the community’s emergency preparedness. While the campaign has not indicated any change to Tiffany’s schedule, the candidate remains focused on his platform of supporting traditional families, protecting individual liberty and promoting faith‑based values throughout Wisconsin.

Local reaction

Wausau residents expressed relief that both men emerged unharmed. Local officials praised the coordination between the airport, the lake patrol and emergency medical services, noting that the swift response exemplifies the community’s commitment to safety and neighborly care.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency training for pilots and the readiness of local first‑responders to act in unexpected situations. No serious injuries were reported, and both Tiffany and the pilot are expected to make a full recovery.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.