So how well known was George W. Bush in September 1997?
The first time my wife heard George W. Bush was thinking of running it was on the radio and we were in the car, and she turned to me and said she couldn't believe the old man was going to try and run for the presidency after Clinton beat him in 92, and then asked if he could serve one or two terms.
Most people had certaintly never heard of him.
About as well known as these two Republicans with lots of talent and good image: (former) Representative Christopher Cox and Arizona Senator Jon Kyl. Both should become more prominent.
Or how experienced for that matter?