Rep. Tom Tiffany Survives Emergency Plane Landing in Wisconsin Lake

U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, the Republican nominee for governor of Wisconsin, survived an emergency plane landing in Lake Wausau after the aircraft lost power while approaching Wausau Downtown Airport.

Tiffany said the pilot was forced to ditch the single-engine plane in the lake. As the aircraft began sinking, Tiffany and the pilot climbed out and swam roughly 100 to 150 feet toward shallow water before emergency crews reached them.

The congressman suffered a cut above his eye that required 12 stitches, while the pilot also sustained minor injuries. Both were taken to Aspirus Wausau Hospital and later released.

Tiffany later became emotional while describing the incident, praising the pilot and first responders and saying the experience reminded him how quickly life can change.

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the cause of the power loss, while the aircraft remains partially submerged in Lake Wausau.

Tiffany, who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, is running against Democrat David Crowley in Wisconsin’s November gubernatorial election.