Wisconsin Republican congressman and governor‑candidate Tom Tiffany survived an emergency water landing Saturday night when his four‑seat Bonanza aircraft lost power over Lake Wausau. The incident occurred as Tiffany was returning from the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner.
Quick response saves lives
After the plane touched down on the lake, Tiffany and the pilot called 911 and swam to a shallow area while waiting for emergency responders. Wausau Fire Department crews arrived by boat, assisted the pair and transported them to Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
At the hospital, Tiffany received stitches for a laceration above his right eye and was released later that evening. The pilot, who was the only other passenger, was also treated and released.
Gratitude and faith
“God was watching over us tonight, and I am incredibly grateful to be here in the hospital with my wife, Chris, by my side,” Tiffany said in a statement. “An experience like this reminds you just how precious life is.” He thanked the Wausau Fire Department and other first responders for their swift action.
Impact on the governor’s race
Tiffany is the Republican challenger to Democrat David Crowley in Wisconsin’s November 3 gubernatorial election. While the landing was an unexpected setback, the candidate’s quick recovery and public expression of faith may resonate with voters who value personal resilience and family values.
The incident underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and the dedication of local first‑responders who keep communities safe, even in unusual circumstances.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
