Wisconsin GOP gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany survived a terrifying crash on Saturday night. His small plane lost power while approaching the Wausau Downtown Airport. An emergency water landing in Lake Wausau was forced upon the pilot.
Tiffany and the pilot escaped with only minor injuries. According to reports, the four-seat Bonanza began filling with water and sinking quickly. The two men called 911 immediately after hitting the water.
But the aircraft went under before rescuers could reach them. Tiffany described the escape on social media. The water was cold, with temperatures in the low 60s.
They had to act fast to stay alive. They waited in the water until a boat arrived.
While returning home from the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner tonight, the plane I was traveling in lost power as we approached the Wausau Downtown Airport. The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau.
After landing, we called 911. As the plane began to…
— Tom Tiffany (@TomTiffanyWI) September 13, 2026
Emergency crews pulled them out of the lake. Both men were taken to Aspirus Wausau Hospital for care. Tiffany confirmed they are recovering well after the ordeal.
Tiffany thanked the first responders who rushed to help. He expressed deep thanks to the pilot and the Wausau Fire Department. His message to them was clear and direct.
“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,” he stated, according to the Daily Wire.
His wife, Chris Tiffany, was by his side at the hospital. She helped him through the scary moments after the rescue. Tiffany shared his thanks for her presence and his faith.
He reflected on the lesson learned from the crash.
People across social media sent prayers and relief messages. They were glad he and the pilot were safe.
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.
I wish them and the Congressman a quick recovery and that they can find solace with their loved ones. https://t.co/WUcbFU8FY0
— David Crowley (@DavidCCrowley) September 13, 2026
This incident happened less than two months before the election. Tiffany faces Democratic Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in November. President Donald Trump has endorsed Tiffany in the race.
Crowley responded to the crash with a message of relief. He said he was glad no one else was hurt in the incident. He wished Tiffany and the pilot a speedy recovery.
The cause of the power loss remains under investigation. Tiffany has served in Congress since 2020. He grew up on a dairy farm and now runs a business with his wife.
The crash could have been a tragedy without the pilot’s skill. Tiffany is running for governor to lead the state forward. He is safe, and the community is relieved. The investigation continues to find out exactly what went wrong. Tiffany remains focused on the upcoming election.
