Charlottesville White Nationalist Rally: Local, State And Federal Officials Condemn Hatred, Bigotry

White nationalists descended on Charlottesville Friday night bearing torches as they marched through the campus of the University of Virginia only to be met by counter-protesters where a clash broke out. The march through the campus, where they chanted things like "blood and soil" and "Jews will not replace us," came ahead of the planned "Unite the Right" rally organized for Saturday in the city's Emancipation Park.

At Saturday's rally, the crowd began to gather by late morning and as protesters and counter-protesters clashed, authorities soon declared a local state of emergency and an unlawful assembly, ordering protesters to leave the park. Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe also declared a state of emergency shortly afterward.

Charlottesville has seen similar rallies in the recent past and the city has become a flashpoint for white nationalists objecting to the decision of local officials to sell the statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. As protesters from both sides demonstrated in Charlottesville, local and federal officials condemned the actions and words of the white nationalists.

SEE ALSO: Car Hits Protesters At Charlottesville 'Unite The Right' Rally

Charlottesville Mayor Mike Signer

"I have seen tonight the images of torches on the Grounds of the University of Virginia. When I think of torches, I want to think of the Statue of Liberty. When I think of candelight, I want to think of prayer vigils. Today, in 2017, we are instead seeing a cowardly parade of hatred, bigotry, racism, and intolerance march down the lawns of the architect of our Bill of Rights. Everyone has a right under the First Amendment to express their opinion peaceably, so here's mine: not only as the Mayor of Charlottesville, but as a UVA faculty member and alumnus, I am beyond disgusted by this unsanctioned and despicable display of visual intimidation on a college campus."

UVA President Teresa A. Sullivan

As President of the University of Virginia, I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the hateful behavior displayed by torch-bearing protestors that marched on our Grounds this evening. I strongly condemn the unprovoked assault on members of our community, including University personnel who were attempting to maintain order. Law enforcement continues to investigate the incident, and it is my hope that any individuals responsible for criminal acts are held accountable. The violence displayed on Grounds is intolerable and is entirely inconsistent with the University’s values.

Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine

"Virginia has come so far in recent decades to put division behind us. … It's sickening to see the displays of violence and bigotry that were brought to Charlottesville by white nationalists over the last 24 hours, which tragically led to injuries and at least one death today. This is not who we are. … The fact that people like David Duke cited the President to justify their views is a disturbing reminder that divisive rhetoric has sadly contributed to a climate where individuals who espouse hate feel emboldened. As they seek publicity through their hateful tactics, let's pull together--regardless of party, race or religion--to reject hatred in no uncertain terms and stand together. I'm encouraged by the words of leaders on both sides of the aisle who have spoken out forcefully against what has occurred today, and it's critical that we follow up those words with action that builds a more inclusive future."

Ed Gillespie, 2017 Republican Nominee for Virginia Governor

“Having a right to spew vile hate does not make it right. It is painful to see these ugly events in Charlottesville last night and today. These displays have no place in our Commonwealth, and the mentality on display is rejected by the decent, thoughtful and compassionate fellow Virginians I see every day. I know we all appreciate the law enforcement officials maintaining order and protecting public safety there.”

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer

House Speaker Paul Ryan

In more formal remarks from Bedminster, New Jersey, Trump said the White House condemned hatred, violence and bigotry on "many sides."

Photo by Chip Somodovella/Getty Images News/Getty Images