Representative Tom Tiffany Survives Emergency Landing on Lake Wausau

A sudden mechanical failure forced Wisconsin Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany to execute an emergency water landing on Lake Wausau. The plane plunged into the lake while returning from a political event in La Crosse County, leaving both Tiffany and his pilot to swim to safety with only minor injuries.

Editorial·September 15, 2026·reads: 1,163

Representative Tom Tiffany Survives Emergency Landing on Lake Wausau

The incident occurred as the aircraft lost power during its approach to the Wausau Downtown Airport. The pilot managed to maneuver the craft onto the water, preventing a more severe impact and allowing both men to exit the wreckage before rescue teams arrived.

Tiffany, who holds an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, is currently campaigning against Democratic challenger David Crowley. Following the crash, Crowley issued a statement expressing relief that the passengers survived, specifically crediting the pilot’s quick reactions for preventing a fatal outcome.