An NBC29 reporter noted that police maintained a presence in and around the park but did not intervene. Demonstrations involving 50 or fewer people do not need a permit in Charlottesville, and the park is open to the public until 11 p.m.

“While we prefer protesters get permits like any other event,” city spokeswoman Miriam Dicker said in an email, “such assemblies are protected by the First Amendment and we do not interfere unless we perceive a legal or safety issue.”

In a tweet, Mayor Mike Signer called the rally “another despicable visit by neo-Nazi cowards,” adding, “You’re not welcome here! Go home! Meantime we’re looking at all our legal options. Stay tuned.”

City Councilor Wes Bellamy called for the ralliers to be prosecuted. He cited section 18.2-423.01 of the Virginia Code, which states that "any person who, with the intent of intimidating any person or group of persons, burns an object on a highway or other public place in a manner having a direct tendency to place another person in reasonable fear or apprehension of death or bodily injury is guilty of a Class 6 felony."