Key switching on but cannot turn to start and all gauges are not picking

Welcome to 2CarPros.

My first suspect is the switch itself is bad. Since the key still turns to the on position, it doesn't sound like the tumbler is bad.

I would remove the switch itself and see if there are any issues with it. When it is out, confirm a proper connection between the switch and the lock cylinder.

Here are the directions for removal of the switch. The attached pictures correlate with the directions.

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2002 Jeep Truck Grand Cherokee 4WD Laredo L6-4.0L VIN S

Vehicle Steering and Suspension Steering Steering Column Service and Repair Procedures
IGNITION SWITCH REMOVAL

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.
1. Remove key cylinder. Refer to previous steps.

Pic 1

2. Remove lower steering column cover screws and remove cover.

Pic 2

3. Remove ignition switch mounting screw. Use tamper proof torx bit to remove the screw.

Pic 3

4. Using a small screwdriver, push on locking tab and remove switch from steering column.
5. Disconnect two electrical connectors at rear of ignition switch.

IGNITION SWITCH INSTALLATION
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.

Pic 4

1. Before installing ignition switch, rotate the slot in the switch to the ON position.
2. Connect two electrical connectors to rear of ignition switch. Make sure that locking tabs are fully seated into wiring connectors.
3. Position switch to column and install tamper proof screw. Tighten screw to 3 Nm (26 inch lbs.).
4. Install steering column lower cover.

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Here are the directions for lock cylinder removal which is required to remove the main switch.

2002 Jeep Truck Grand Cherokee 4WD Laredo L6-4.0L VIN S
Vehicle Starting and Charging Sensors and Switches - Starting and Charging Ignition Switch PROCEDURES
LOCK CYLINDER

REMOVAL
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.
1. Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
2. If equipped with an automatic transmission, place shifter in PARK position.
3. Rotate key to ON position.

Pic 5

4. A release tang is located on bottom of key cylinder.
5. Position a small screwdriver or pin punch into tang access hole on bottom of steering column lower cover.
6. Push the pin punch up while pulling key cylinder from steering column.

INSTALLATION
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.
1. If equipped with an automatic transmission, place shifter in PARK position.
2. Position key cylinder into steering column as it would normally be in the ON position.
3. Press key cylinder into column until it snaps into position.
4. Check mechanical operation of switch. Automatic Transmission: Be sure transmission lever is locked in PARK position after key removal. If key is difficult to rotate or is difficult to remove, the shift lever-to-steering column cable may be out of adjustment or defective. Refer to Transmission for procedures. Manual Transmission: Be sure key cannot be removed until release lever is operated. If key can be removed, release lever mechanism may be defective. Release lever mechanism is not serviced separately. If repair is necessary, the steering column must be replaced.
5. Connect negative cable to battery.
6. Check electrical operation of switch.

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Let me know if this helps.

Take care,
Joe