The important power of the Executive over the Legislative Branch is simply the ability to veto acts of Congress (this veto can be overridden with a 2/3 majority vote). This veto can occur in different ways; the president can refuse to sign or he can set the act aside and after 10 days this becomes known as a 'pocket' veto. The Executive can appoint Federal judges and issue pardons which give it some control of the Judicial branch. You ask for five; actually, the Legislature has the most checks because this was the way it was set up in the beginning. The Founders believed the Legislature was going to be the people's branch.
Checks and balances is an essential part of American government in that it provides limits on the power of our key institutions and leaders. Here are 5 checks on executive power:
Legislation: While the President can veto (reject) legislation, Congress can override the veto with a 2/3s vote in the House and Senate
Appointment: Presidents can nominate people to serve on the US Supreme Court and in his Cabinet and other high ranking positions. However, the US Senate has the authority to approve or disapprove these nominations.
Treaties: Presidents can negotiate treaties for foreign states, but to become in effect, the US Senate must ratify the treaties.
War and Combat: Presidents can sent troops into combat, but is not authorized by the Constitution to declare war. In accordance with the War Powers Resolution, Presidents must inform Congress within 48 hours and must seek Congressional support for these actions after 60 days.
Impeachment and Removal: Congress has the authority to impeach and remove Presidents for misconduct in office.
