Cannot get the truck to start with the key but.

First of all, what's the symptom? "Doesn't start" can mean a dozen different things. What are you "crossing"?

Chances are the ignition switch itself is bad. That is what I would check first.

There should be a power distribution box under the hood that holds relays. That is where it should be.

There's no need to go looking for anything else if he's connecting two wires right at the ignition switch. You know everything else is working because it cranks. That switch is adjustable and it's likely misadjusted so it's not moving far enough.

Also, look at the old switch for signs of blackened or overheated terminals. Of there are, you'll find the same thing in the connector's terminals. Those will need to be changed. If the connector body is melted, the terminals can be cut out and replaced and plugged in individually.