To compare the vulnerability of the heads of executive departments versus those of regulatory agencies based on the information provided, we focus on the conditions surrounding their removal from office:
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Heads of Executive Departments: It is generally understood that the heads of executive departments serve at the pleasure of the President, meaning they can be fired at the President's will. This makes them more vulnerable to political changes and the President's priorities.
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Heads of Regulatory Agencies: In contrast, many heads of regulatory agencies (such as those of independent agencies) often have more job security. These heads typically cannot be removed during their terms except for extreme misconduct or specific violations, providing them with a degree of protection from the immediate influence of the President and any political shifts.
Given these contexts, the correct comparison would be that the heads of executive departments are more vulnerable since they can be dismissed at the President's discretion, while heads of regulatory agencies have protections that prevent them from being easily dismissed.
Therefore, the most accurate statement from the options provided is: The heads of the former can be fired at the will of the president; while the heads of the latter can't be fired during their terms except for extreme misconduct.