WAUSAU, Wisconsin – Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany, the Republican candidate for governor, and his pilot, Len Boltz, survived an emergency water landing on a lake near Wausau Saturday night. Both men were able to crawl from the aircraft and swim to shallow water where they were rescued by local responders.
According to Tiffany, the pilot’s quick actions kept the situation from becoming a tragedy. “I’m lucky to be alive,” Tiffany told the Wisconsin Radio Network, adding that the pilot worked to stabilize the plane until the very end. Both men emerged with only minor injuries, and medical personnel confirmed they were stable.
The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft took off for a routine trip. While the exact cause of the water landing has not been released, officials are investigating the event to determine whether mechanical issues or weather played a role.
Impact on campaign activities
Tiffany emphasized that the accident will not derail his campaign for governor. “This won’t stop my campaign duties,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to Wisconsin voters. The congressman’s office confirmed that upcoming campaign events will proceed as scheduled, with adjustments made for his recovery.
Local authorities praised the swift response of emergency crews who arrived on the scene within minutes. “The coordination between the lake patrol, fire department, and medical teams was exemplary,” said a spokesperson for the Wausau Fire Department.
Community response
Residents expressed relief and support for the congressman and his pilot. Social media posts from Wausau citizens highlighted gratitude for the emergency responders and offered prayers for a quick recovery. “Thank God for the brave men who helped get them out safely,” one comment read.
While the incident generated concern, it also underscored the importance of local emergency preparedness. The Wausau County Sheriff’s Office reminded the public that lake safety measures are in place and encouraged anyone planning water activities to stay informed about weather conditions.
Next steps
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has opened a preliminary investigation into the water landing. Officials will review flight data, pilot logs, and aircraft maintenance records before releasing a full report.
In the meantime, Congressman Tiffany will continue his campaign schedule, focusing on issues important to Wisconsin families, such as job creation, school choice, and protecting constitutional freedoms.
For updates on the investigation and the congressman’s campaign events, stay tuned to local news outlets and the official campaign website.
Original reporting: WHBY (Appleton) — read the source article.
