Republican Representative Troy Downing of Montana said on Bloomberg television Tuesday that Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh must raise interest rates because inflation remains above its goal.

Downing said he anticipates a small move, likely a quarter point, and would be surprised if none occurred. He called the step sound even if the White House dislikes it, arguing it would show the central bank is acting in earnest. Timing near an election is awkward, he said, yet the increase is warranted and should help ease price pressures.

He also pointed to energy prices as a short-lived factor shaped by events in the Middle East, while still tying his rate outlook to the inflation data.