We have never been in this predicament before - a criminal ex-president running for reelection. The evidence against him is damning, but he is, as you note, still popular with his substantial base. Whether we will or even can indict and convict him is unclear. The goal is, of course, to prevent him from obtaining any government office, especially the one of president again. He could regain the office even during a protracted battle with the DOJ.