Thomas Tiffany

Thomas P. Tiffany is an American politician and businessman currently serving as the U.S. Representative for Wisconsin's 7th congressional district. A member of the Republican Party, Tiffany has been in office since winning a special election in 2020. He is affiliated with the House Freedom Caucus, which is recognized as one of the most conservative factions within the House of Representatives. In addition to his congressional duties, Tiffany has a history of public service at the state level, having served in both the Wisconsin State Senate and the State Assembly. He is also a candidate for the governorship of Wisconsin in the upcoming 2026 election.

Early life and career

Tiffany was born on December 30, 1957, in Wabasha, Minnesota. He grew up on a dairy farm near Elmwood in Pierce County, Wisconsin, where he was one of eight siblings, having five brothers and two sisters. He completed his secondary education at Elmwood High School, graduating in 1976. Following high school, Tiffany pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural economics in 1980.

After completing his education, Tiffany began his professional career in the agricultural sector. He initially managed the petroleum division of a farm cooperative in Plainview, Minnesota. In 1988, he relocated to Minocqua, Wisconsin, to oversee the petroleum distribution operations for Zenker Oil Company. In addition to his corporate roles, Tiffany and his wife, Chris, have operated an excursion business on the Willow Flowage since 1991, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit.

Tiffany's political career began at the local level when he served as the Town Supervisor of Little Rice, Wisconsin, from 2009 to 2013. He also held an appointed position on the Oneida County Economic Development Corporation, contributing to local economic initiatives. His initial attempts to enter the Wisconsin State Senate were made in 2004 and 2008, where he ran against incumbent Senator Roger Breske and later against Jim Holperin. Both campaigns were competitive, but Tiffany was unsuccessful in securing a seat during those elections.

In 2010, Tiffany shifted his focus to the Wisconsin State Assembly, running for the seat vacated by retiring incumbent Donald Friske. He won the Republican primary and subsequently defeated the Democratic nominee, Jay Schmelling, in the general election. After serving a term in the Assembly, Tiffany opted not to seek reelection and instead pursued a seat in the Wisconsin State Senate, which he successfully won in 2012 against Democrat Susan Sommer.

House tenure

Tiffany's tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives began following a special election held on May 12, 2020, to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Representative Sean Duffy. Tiffany won the Republican primary on February 18, 2020, and subsequently defeated Wausau attorney Tricia Zunker in the special election. He was sworn into office on May 19, 2020, and later secured a victory against Zunker in a rematch during the general election on November 3, 2020.

During his time in the House, Tiffany has aligned himself with the Republican Party's more conservative elements, particularly in relation to his support for former President Donald Trump's policies. In his first year, he was involved in efforts to contest the results of the 2020 presidential election, signing an amicus brief in support of a lawsuit challenging the election results. He was also one of the House members who objected to the counting of electoral votes from certain states during the certification process.

Tiffany's voting record has included notable opposition to various legislative measures. For instance, in June 2021, he was one of a small number of House Republicans who voted against establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday. His foreign policy positions have included support for Taiwan, where he has introduced legislation aimed at establishing diplomatic relations and advocating for Taiwan's participation in international organizations like the World Health Organization.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Tiffany has focused on a range of legislative issues, particularly those that align with his conservative principles. He has been an advocate for infrastructure projects within his district, collaborating with bipartisan groups to secure funding for significant initiatives, such as the replacement of the Blatnik Bridge connecting Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.

In terms of foreign policy, Tiffany has expressed strong support for Taiwan, emphasizing the need for the United States to recognize Taiwan as a state. He has introduced multiple pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations with Taiwan and ensuring its representation in global forums. His legislative efforts have included measures to restrict the Department of State from limiting communications with Taiwanese officials.

Tiffany has also been active in discussions surrounding military involvement abroad. He was among the Republican members who voted to repeal the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against Iraq and has called for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria within a specified timeframe.

In matters of trade, Tiffany has voiced support for import tariffs, describing them as strategic measures intended to benefit American interests. His legislative agenda reflects a commitment to both local and national issues, as he navigates the complexities of representing his constituents while aligning with broader Republican Party objectives.

As of now, Tiffany continues to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, with his current term set to conclude on January 3, 2027. His ongoing political activities and aspirations for the governorship of Wisconsin indicate his continued engagement in public service and political discourse within the state and the nation.