News and politics, which seem to go hand-in-hand: Sen. John McCain, a guest on today's "Live with Regis & Kelly," reacting to one of his baby photos held up by Regis Philbin: "I notice I have my mouth open. Maybe that was some predictor of my entry into politics." CNN, meanwhile, has hired President Bush's ex-anti- terrorism/homeland security adviser, Frances Townsend, as an on-air analyst. She's a former Manhattan-based prosecutor. And ABC's "World News" ran the table last week by winning in total viewers, households and adults 25-54. Charlie Gibson anchors; Natalie Raabe publicizes. * * * Ex-"Sopranos" wiseguy Joe Gannascoli (Vito) is now the national spokesperson for Bright Steps Forward - which provides funding for therapy to help children with cerebral palsy, autism and se vere brain trauma. Joe will host a fundraiser for the organization June 16 at NYIT's de Seversky Center in Old Brookville (Long Island). Gannascoli's former co-star, Vinny Pastore, teamed with his "Wiseguys Show" side kicks John Ciarcia and Joe Rigano last night to host a book-signing party at Cha Cha's Café for Walter T. Shaw ("A License To Steal"). * * * ESPN's "SportsCenter" goes live from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting Aug. 11. Hannah Storm, late of "The Early Show," will host from 9 a.m. to noon; other anchor an nouncements to come. Last, but not least: * Today/tonight: Mario Lopez on "GDNY" (7-9 a.m./ Ch. 5); new Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni visits Boomer Esia son (10:30 p.m./MSG). * Judah Friedlander ("30 Rock") headlines Carolines tomorrow through Sunday. * A big "Get Well" to feisty Janine Iamunno (Headline News).